The company marks over five decades of innovation, growth, and commitment to community care.
On September 1, 2025, Acadian Ambulance, the nation’s largest employee-owned ambulance service, proudly celebrates its 54th anniversary. Since its founding in 1971, the company has grown from a small operation with two ambulances and eight medics to a multistate enterprise providing emergency and non-emergency medical care, air services, and a diverse range of health, security and safety solutions.
Founded by Richard Zuschlag, Richard Sturlese, and Roland Dugas, Acadian was established in response to a critical need for professional ambulance services after increased federal regulations caused many of the nation’s funeral homes to discontinue using hearses for patient transport. Acadian’s pioneering spirit and dedication to patient care have since become a model for the EMS industry.
“Celebrating 54 years is a testament to the hard work and dedication of every single employee-owner who has contributed to our mission,” said Acadian Companies CEO H. Eddy Dupuis. “We continue to build on our legacy of compassion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the communities we serve. We’ve grown and adapted as a vital part of the healthcare system, and are ready to respond 24/7.”
A Legacy of Firsts and Forward Thinking
Over its 54-year history, Acadian Ambulance has been at the forefront of the EMS field, introducing numerous innovations that have improved patient outcomes and expanded its service offerings. These include being a pioneer in air medical services with Acadian Air Med, launching the National EMS Academy to combat paramedic shortages and grow the EMS workforce, developing advanced safety and security solutions through Safety Management Systems and Acadian Total Security, and expanding into healthcare at home with Acadian Health.
As Acadian looks to the future, it remains focused on leveraging technology and clinical excellence to meet the evolving needs of its patients. The company’s continued growth reaffirms its mission to provide the highest level of prehospital care and support to the communities it serves across Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, and Tennessee.
About Acadian Ambulance
Acadian Ambulance is the largest employee-owned ambulance service in the nation, providing transportation and medical services to areas in Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. It is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services, and a member of the American Ambulance Association which is dedicated to safeguarding the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. Acadian Air Med is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems.
