BUSINESS INSIDER

Kristen DeHart, Excelsior Springs Hospital CEO, presented attendees with a unique fun project at the September Chamber luncheon. On each table was an empty vase. Each table was provided with a sack containing single flowers. As she asked questions of the audience, depending on responses, each individual table worked to create a bouquet of flowers in their empty vase.

Questions:

1 – Do you know where the hospital is located?
1700 Rainbow Blvd., Excelsior Springs, MO 64024

2 – Have you been seen by any of our primary care physicians or specialty clinics this year?
The hospital has had 20,000 visitors this past year for services. Watch for new health services to be added in the near future.

3 – Have you ever been seen in our ER?
Dr. Hoffman, our ER director is a hometown hero. We have seen 8,500 patients in the ER this past year.

4 – Have you had breakfast or lunch in our cafeteria?
There has been 130,000 meals prepared for the hospital and Cafe 1700 in the past year.

5 – Do you know an employee at Excelsior Springs Hospital?
ESH employs 295 staff members, one of the largest employers in Excelsior Springs, contributing to the economic development of our community every day.

6 – Have you seen us outside the hospital walls?
The hospital participants in SAFE, Waterfest, Farmers Market, Job Corps programs and Rotary events, to name a few. “We love being a part of our community,” said Kristen.

7 – Have you been in our Radiology Department?
The hospital has had 70,000 lab draws, 12,750 radiology visits, and 14,000 rehab visits on the past year. In addition, the Community Pharmacy located at ESH has filled 100,000 prescriptions.

8 – Do you pay taxes in Clay County?
“We want to say thank you,” said Kristen. “The hospital has been granted finances for its 4th year by Clay County to  fund psychiatric services amounting to $1.55 million.

9 – Do you or have you, since inception, served or know someone who has served on our hospital board?
The board and foundation members have benefited the hospital by $3 million.

10 – Are you a Facebook friend?
“We are a little challenged this year. Our Facebook page was hacked, however, we are working to get it back,” said Kristen.

11 – Are you planning to attend our Annual Gala?
“We would love for you to attend,” Kristen said. The 32nd Annual Fall Gala will be held October 16 at the Elms Resort & Spa.

Kristen spoke about the health care challenges that rural hospitals are experiencing. She and her team are working so make sure our hospital will be here for the next 125 years.

“Your empty vase represents a community without a hospital,” said Kristen. “Together we produce strong and beautiful things. Our Chamber, community and hospital is stronger together.”