Excelsior Springs, Missouri, is situated in Clay and Ray counties, part of the Kansas City MSA. Excelsior Springs is located along the East Fork Fishing River, drawing people to the scenic and outdoor recreation that the river brings. Excelsior Springs’ unique history began with the discovery of its mineral waters; the city grew as a destination for healing waters. Its numerous mineral wells has attracted people nationally to come experience “America’s Haven of Health.” The city’s economy was forever changed but not its unique beauty, character, and history. Excelsior Springs is the first community in the nation to receive silver recognition through the Communities of Excellence Assessment and Recognition Program. This is the highest level of recognition currently awarded through the program. The effort to receive this recognition was led by Thrive Excelsior, a community coalition seeking to increase the quality of life and life span of residents in Excelsior Springs. The Excelsior Springs Hospital (ESH) is the cornerstone of healthcare in Excelsior Springs. The facility has modern surgical services, critical care unit, 24-hour emergency care, comprehensive laboratory, home health and hospice care, cardiopulmonary, radiology services, rehabilitation services, outpatient specialty clinics and Senior Life Solutions. The medical staff includes more than 100 physicians, and the hospital employs more than 300 people. ESH also has two physician clinics and a Health Express Clinic. ESH provides Excelsior Springs and the surrounding communities with quality healthcare close to home. ESH is affiliated with North Kansas City Hospital.