Our Company

It began with three young cofounders, two ambulances, eight medics and the Parish of Lafayette.

Acadian Ambulance Service

In 1971, Acadian Ambulance began operations in response to a sudden crisis. Communities around the country found themselves without emergency medical transportation when new federal regulations caused funeral homes to discontinue using their hearses for emergency transport. These regulations went into effect at midnight on September 1, 1971. At 12:01 a.m., Acadian Ambulance began its Louisiana operations with three young co-founders, two ambulances, eight medics, and the parish of Lafayette.

REZ on pontiac 1971

Company History

Knowing Life Matters Since 1971

The company had very humble beginnings as Richard Zuschlag and his cofounders answered calls, drove ambulances, swept the headquarters, kept books and did whatever else was necessary to get the company off the ground.

Treat in Place team

Company Culture

Passion, Compassion, Dedication, Investment, and Innovation

In an area known for a family-centric culture with strong communities and hard workers, Acadian Ambulance grew out of our community’s need for emergency medical support and care. Commitment to our community, along with our love of the people within it, guided us in the beginning and is our driving force today.

Employee Owner Month

Employee Stock Ownership Plan

Truly Invested in Acadian

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

Acadian Co Luncheon

Leadership

Promoting Continued Growth

Cofounder Richard Zuschlag remains as the chairman & CEO. “We were determined to provide the best ambulance service possible,” he said. “We had a lot of help and support from Lafayette Parish officials and will forever remain grateful.”

CAAS Accreditation

Encouraging and Promoting Quality Patient Care

In 1995, Acadian first earned accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services, a designation that represents the gold standard for the ambulance industry. In 2010, Texas operations were reviewed separately and also received CAAS accreditation.