The Public Health Service Meritorious Service Medal honors PHSCC members who execute an individual noteworthy achievement, complete a distinguished tenure with the service, or otherwise demonstrate outstanding leadership.
The United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (PHSCC) is the United States Public Health Service’s federal uniformed branch of service and falls under the aegis of the Department of Health and Human Services, led by the Surgeon General. The PHSCC traces its roots back to the establishment of the Marine Hospital Fund in 1798, which provided for the care of merchant sailors. Currently, the PHSCC is headquartered in Rockville, Maryland. The PHSCC grants certain awards to its members to acknowledge meritorious service or accomplishments.
The medal features the PHSCC emblem encircled by an inscription reading “PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE - UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The ribbon is maroon and is bisected by a vertical white stripe; it also features dark blue edging.