The Health Department was organized on July 25, 1946 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the administration of President Allan A. C. Griffith.  Sister Mary Belle Shelton who was a nurse by profession founded the department and served as the first Chairperson. She wanted to care for the sick and attend to the physical needs of ushers at the National Convention.

In 1954, the department became a unit which included the Red Cross, First Aid Nurses and Practical Nurses.  This department sets up and manages a first aid station at the seat of the  Convention and serves all who come for the duration of the Convention.  The health of the membership is a vital concern to our National Organization, so each member must have training in first aid.

In 1952, the department was named in honor of the National First Vice-President Albert W. Briggs, who hailed from Dallas, Texas.