A silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in diameter overall, consisting of a maroon disc bearing a silver wheel superimposed by two white crossed stretchers, overall at center a silver disc bearing a red fleur-de-lis, the wheel encircled at top by the inscription "CARING FOR THE BEST" and at bottom two crossed branches of laurel all in silver.
Maroon and white (silver) are colors traditionally associated with the Army Medical Corps. White (silver) suggests integrity and maroon recalls blood. The wheel represents service as a Mobile Hospital in World War I and the stretchers denote World War II service as an Evacuation Hospital. The fleur-de-lis alludes to service in Europe and the unit's baptism of fire in France. Laurel stands for honor and high ideals. The stretchers form a cross symbolizing care, medical service and the unit's mission while the wheel implies speed and adaptability.
The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 22 December 1992. The insignia was redesignated from the 396th Combat Support Hospital to the 396th Field Hospital 4 February 2021.