History

The Medal of Honour for Public Assistance (La Médaille d'honneur de l'Assistance publique) was created on January 15, 1891 and was later replaced by the Order of Public Health in 1938.

It was awarded for distinguished service and devotion in hospitals and other welfare establishments. The Medal had three grades which were based on length of service. The Bronze Medal was awarded for 10 years of service, the Silver Medal could be awarded for 10 years of service after receiving the Bronze Medal, and the Gold Medal could be awarded for 15 years of service after receiving the Silver Medal.

The Medal was extended to citizens in Algeria in 1904. This Medal was differed from the Medal awarded in France by a crescent moon and star clasp.

There are two different versions of the Medal that vary in engraving and inscription. The first version has a reverse inscription that translates to “Ministry of the Interior, Public Assistance,” and the second version has a reverse inscription that translates to “Ministry of Health, Public Assistance.”