[The Law of 19 Ventôse, year 21 (10 March 1803): fundamental text and provisional expedient]

Abstract

During the last years of the Ancien Régime, Fourcroy established the link between Vicq d'Azyr and Colombier who both wore themselves out in order to reform the medical profession, fallen into a state of turmoil. But both died, and henceforth everything was handled by Fourcroy. On 10 March 1803 (19 Ventose an XI) he arranged for the passage of a fundamental law--today is its bi-centennial--reorganising the profession. Henceforth no one could exercise that profession without having been received as a doctor, except in underdeveloped regions where "health officers" (less qualified practitioners) would be accepted.