History

The Distinguished Service Medal from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare was established by a decree from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. It is awarded to Portuguese citizens in recognition of acts of self-sacrifice, charity, altruism and other distinguished contributions to public health and social welfare programs. It may also be awarded to Portuguese organisations, institutions, and businesses for contributions to public health and social welfare.

The Distinguished Service Medal from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is conferred in grades according to the position of the recipient and the quality of services that have been rendered.

The Copper Medal has an obverse inscription that translates to "Ministry of Health and Social Welfare," and a reverse inscription that translates to "Distinguished Service."