A Proven History of Response

Acadian Ambulance Service began operations in Lafayette, Louisiana, on September 1, 1971. Since then, our company has expanded to include diverse divisions that share a spirit of innovation and contribute to our mission of Knowing Life Matters. 

Acadian Ambulance Service, Acadian Air Med, Executive Aircraft Charter Service, Safety Management Systems, National EMS Academy, Acadian Total Security, and Acadian Health comprise Acadian Companies, and together, we have more than 5,300 employee-owners. 

Acadian Companies has remained at the forefront of using advanced technology and stringent medical protocols and training. We have accomplished many notable “firsts” in our storied history. 

We were the first ambulance service to formalize training for EMTs and paramedics. In 1976, the National Registry of EMTs adopted our IV training program and began using it nationwide. 

In 1989, we partnered with the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now University of Louisiana at Lafayette) in the first scientifically controlled study of an external pacemaker. 

Our company has also led the way in the use of technology. We were granted the first Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license to transmit electrocardiogram (EKG) telemetry from a remote location to a hospital. 

In a partnership with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), we were the first to use a satellite to establish communications between medics on offshore oil rigs to hospitals onshore. 

We became one of the first to launch a telemedicine program, allowing physicians at a computer terminal in an emergency room to view high-resolution video images transmitted from paramedics offshore. 

The Acadian story is one of dedication, perseverance, resilience, caring, and compassion. 

In 1993, Acadian Companies instituted an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), giving employees the opportunity to own private shares in the company. Our employees currently own approximately 80% of Acadian stock. 

A key benefit of this plan is that our employees, as owners, are truly invested in the work they do. Ownership gives employees a sense of pride, strengthening our foundation and promoting continued growth. 

Acadian and its employee-owners have earned many awards from the National ESOP Association and its Southwest Chapter.

Today Acadian operates in many fields such as the ones below: