Acadian Ambulance has joined FirstNet, connecting its medics and ambulances to the nationwide public safety broadband network. This tech upgrade equips Acadian’s EMS personnel with new capabilities and reliable access to critical information while in the field, so they can better serve patients across Louisiana, Texas and Mississippi.
“Our connected medical devices share important information with hospitals,” said Joey Branton, director of technology for Acadian Ambulance. “From voice and data to photos and video, being able to send that information while en route to the hospital is crucial. It can make the difference in getting patients to the proper treatment centers and, ultimately, saving lives. Whether it’s during a routine call, a widespread disaster or even just a large event, FirstNet gives us the connectivity we need to give patients the best possible care.”
Acadian Ambulance is using both handheld devices and mobile gateways in its ambulances to keep EMS personnel connected to FirstNet. This lets them tap into the benefits of the public safety network, like always-on priority and preemption, a separate and highly secure communications platform and access to a dedicated applications ecosystem.
FirstNet is helping to improve communications among Acadian’s medics. During mass-casualties and large events, Acadian has already seen the advantages of using FirstNet in the field. It’s helped them to operate smarter, faster and safer.
“We’re only going to see an increased need for sharing more and more data in near real time,” Branton added. “With wide-scale adoption, FirstNet can make solutions that we’ve only dreamed of a reality.”
FirstNet is being built by AT&T in public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority). It’s designed with and for public safety to give them the modern communications tools they need to keep themselves and those they serve safer.
“The EMS community fought for FirstNet – this is our network, and it’s great to see Acadian Ambulance leading the way,” said FirstNet Authority Board Member Kevin McGinnis, who serves as Communications Technology Advisor for 5 national EMS associations. With more than 40 years as a paramedic or paramedic chief in 3 states, including 10 years as the EMS director for the State of Maine, McGinnis understands the value of FirstNet. “With FirstNet, EMS personnel now have a dedicated, reliable and secure connection to quickly share lifesaving information and help improve patient outcomes.”
“We took action when first responders said they needed better tools to keep their communities – and themselves – out of harm’s way. FirstNet will help first responders across the country perform at the highest levels,” said Maria Lensing, vice president Global Healthcare Solutions – AT&T Business. “We’re honored to play a part in the transformation from healthcare to human care. And we applaud Acadian for helping to lead the way.”
“FirstNet is the exclusive communications platform built with AT&T for public safety, inspired by public safety – there is no substitution for this network that they fought for,” said FirstNet Authority CEO Mike Poth. “We look forward to supporting Acadian’s use of FirstNet, making sure it delivers what they need, when they need it.”
