Latest news with #EAPs
Business Wire
01-08-2025
- Health
- Business Wire
Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children (LuskinOIC) Equips Athletic Trainers for Success And Hosts Second Annual, Fall Kick Off, Sports Medicine Webinar Mini-Series
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children (LuskinOIC) hosted their second annual Sports Medicine Fall Kick Off Mini-Series, July 29 & 31, to provide athletic trainers with an evidence-based overview in prevention, evaluation, acute management, rehabilitation of special topics, and advances in pediatric and adolescent Sports Medicine. LuskinOIC provides athletic trainers with an evidence-based overview in prevention, evaluation, acute management, rehabilitation of special topics, and advances in pediatric and adolescent Sports Medicine. Share Organized by LuskinOIC Athletic Trainer, Joanna Stover, the live virtual series allows participants to address the gaps in training and reinforces existing knowledge of musculoskeletal conditions, diagnosis, and treatment. Each two-hour session included a live Q&A with clinicians that encourages participants to engage directly with expert presenters. Featured Presenters & Topics Included: Athlete Mental Health by Dr. Emily Miller, MD Heat and Cold Applications in Rehab and Performance Dr. Joshua Goldman, MD Advances in Knee Surgical Techniques in the Adolescent Athlete by Dr. Soroush Baghdadi, MD Cultivating an Inclusive Athletic Training Practice for All by Christine Caron, DPT and Isaac Aguilar, PT Using Effective Documentation/Data to Advocate for Additional Athletic Training Resources by Caitlin Romero- Sanchez, DAT, ATC and Miguel Romero- Sanchez, DAT, ATC Ankle Baseline Functional Testing, Rehab Progressions, and Return to Sport by Tyler Lesher, DHSc, ATC, CSCS (Former UCLA Men's Basketball, private performance therapist) The series is highly beneficial for high school athletic trainers and fellow doctors who work to provide expert care to pediatric and adolescent athletes. The mini-series offers low-cost Continuing Education Units (CEU) credits for Secondary School Trainers (3-4 CEU's) for certified athletic trainers. Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to: Discuss current best practice in knee surgical techniques for the adolescent athlete Update indications for the use of heat and cold in rehab and sport performance Establish guidelines for mental health Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for the secondary school setting Discuss strategies for cultivating an inclusive athletic training practice and opportunities to get involved in para/adaptive sport Implement effective documentation strategies to advocate for additional resources as a secondary school Assistive Technology (AT) Establish pre-season baseline testing for ankle function, evidence-based rehab progression, and return to sport criteria For more information about the Institute, please visit and follow us @LuskinOIC About Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children (LuskinOIC) Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children was founded in 1911 as Los Angeles Orthopaedic Hospital and today is the largest pediatric orthopaedic facility on the West Coast, focused solely on musculoskeletal conditions in children. In alliance with UCLA Health and with the support of the LuskinOIC Foundation, we advance pediatric orthopaedics worldwide through outstanding patient care, medical education, and research. Our locations in downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Westwood, and Calexico treat the full spectrum of pediatric orthopaedic disorders and injuries. For more information, please visit
Malaysian Reserve
28-07-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
ECRL: Remapping the nation's growth engine
It would reshape Malaysia's logistics corridors, attract new investment and rebalance regional development by HIDAYATH HISHAM & SUFEA SALEHUDDIN THE East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) is shaping up to be more than just a railway. Beyond connecting the east coast to Selangor, the project is being positioned as a force of national growth — one that could reshape Malaysia's logistics corridors, attract new investments and rebalance regional development. As of June, the 665km alignment has reached 82.45% completion, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke. Yet, experts say the railway's true success will hinge on more than construction milestones. (graphic: TMR) Coordinated Strategy, High-impact Zones Investor activity along the ECRL corridor is gaining tangible momentum, backed by confirmed projects and rising interest, particularly in Pahang and across the East Coast Economic Region (ECER), according to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). 'This growing momentum is the result of deliberate strategy, strong inter-agency collaboration at both federal and state levels, and tangible infrastructural progress,' MIDA said in a written statement to The Malaysian Reserve (TMR). MIDA said the project remains on track to reach 90% completion by year-end, with full operations expected in 2027. The progress has catalysed logistics expansion, industrial development and rising land values. It has established a dedicated task force with the ECER Development Council (ECERDC) and China Communications Construction Co Ltd (CCCC) to promote and facilitate Economic Accelerator Projects (EAPs) along the corridor. These include transit-oriented developments (TODs), industrial parks and logistics hubs in key areas. Nearly RM20 billion has been invested in Kuantan and the Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park (MCKIP), focusing mainly in high-value manufacturing, processing and logistics. The Malaysia-China Kuantan International Logistics Park (MCKILP) is expected to bring in up to RM17.61 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) and create 20,000 jobs in industries like light and medium manufacturing, warehousing, housing, petrochemicals, steel, palm oil processing, e-commerce and marine engineering. Most investment is focused in high-tech manufacturing, logistics and transport, tourism, hospitality and commercial services. MIDA said it supports these sectors through investor facilitation, feasibility guidance and close engagement with local and state authorities. 'While initial investments have focused on developed areas like MCKIP, the broader ECRL corridor is envisioned to enable balanced development, expanding opportunities to less-developed areas in Terengganu, Kelantan and central Pahang.' Sector Priorities, Catalytic Zones MIDA is focusing on key industries like logistics, green technology, and agro-based sectors near transit-oriented developments (TODs). The ECRL aims to boost east-west trade and speed up industrial growth. Economic Accelerator Projects (EAPs) are open to all investors and concentrate development within a 15km radius or 30-minute drive of ECRL stations. The main focus areas are Kuantan Port City for logistics and manufacturing and central Pahang towns such as Temerloh and Bentong for industrial parks and TODs. Other sites include Kuala Terengganu, Cherating, Kota Sultan Ahmad Shah (Kota- SAS) and Bandar Permaisuri, all under a broader Integrated Land Use Master Plan (ILUMP). 'A new international airport will be developed in the Cherating area. The Cherating Station, currently passenger-only, is planned by the Pahang state to add cargo facilities to support the growing aerospace industry nearby,' MIDA said. KotaSAS, meanwhile, is being developed as a new township and administrative capital for the state government. It currently serves passengers only. Incentives, Promotion and Long-term Positioning MIDA globally promotes key zones like Kuantan Port City under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and offers full support to investors, including site scouting, licensing, land access, incentives and utilities. It coordinates closely with agencies like the Town and Country Planning Department (PLANMalaysia) and state governments to ensure infrastructure and talent readiness. Under the BRI, MIDA promotes the ECRL as a key advantage for investors, linking Port Klang and Kuantan Port to enhance trade by avoiding congested sea routes. Incentive Framework Boosts Enabling Environment The agency said the ECRL is a major incentive, offering strong connections between Malaysia's east and west coasts. It is also collaborating with government agencies to develop competitive incentive packages for EAPs. The government plans to launch a New Investment Incentive Framework in the third quarter of 2025 (3Q25), aimed at encouraging high-value activities and reducing economic differences between regions. 'ECRL aims to boost economic growth, create jobs and support balanced regional development, but its success relies on fair benefit distribution and effective integration with local economies.' ECRL achieves another milestone with the record-breaking breakthrough of the 16.4km Genting Tunnel. Loke (centre) says the completed tunnel is expected to be the longest railway tunnel in South-East Asia Railway History Hints at ECRL's Future Impact Monash University Malaysia senior economics lecturer and Honours/Postgraduate Diploma director Dr Audrey Siah pointed to early railway stations like Taiping in Perak, helped form industrial clusters and boosted nearby towns such as Matang. Citing her co-authored study Colonial Origins of Agglomeration, she said the ECRL could create similar economic ripple effects as past railway developments. 'It is essential to address this potential backwash effect, where areas with stations attract economic resources such as labour, capital and trade, at the expense of areas without stations,' she told TMR. Smaller towns like Kuala Lipis, Jerantut, Kuala Krai and Gua Musang could be developed into feeder points for ECRL-linked logistics. For example, the timber and wood products manufacturing and the agro-based food processing industries in Mentakab, Pahang, could flourish due to its access to cities and ports on the West Coast. Siah said improved connectivity will reduce logistics costs, boost investor confidence and make the East Coast more attractive for sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and export logistics. While ECRL's strategic link between Kuantan Port and Port Klang may appeal to Chinese investors, deeper BRI integration must not sideline local firms. 'If foreign firms dominate business operations and supply chains, Malaysia risks missing critical opportunities for SME participation and local capacity building. 'Another potential risk is an eventual influx of cheaper Chinese goods and services, which could undercut — and ultimately stunt — the growth of Malaysian SMEs in competing sectors,' Siah said. Still, she believes the benefits outweigh the risks. 'To fully benefit from the ECRL, SMEs should position themselves near key stations or industrial hubs along the rail corridor to take advantage of improved connectivity and reduced transportation costs. 'These efforts, part of the ECRL-EAP, offer significant opportunities for SMEs to participate in and benefit from the broader economic transformation,' she added. To benefit from ECRL, SMEs should set up near key stations or industrial hubs along the rail line, says Siah (Source: Kuantan's Strategic Anchor The Kuantan segment of the ECRL stands out as a strategic linchpin in Malaysia's east-west connectivity. Universiti Malaya (UM) Department of Finance, Faculty of Business and Economics Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Edil Abd Sukor believes the corridor's development hinges on how well its infrastructure is integrated with freight logistics and industrial nodes — particularly Kuantan Port and MCKIP. He said Kuantan Port City 1 and 2, and Cherating are strategically positioned to drive regional growth by enhancing mobility, boosting tourism and strengthening Kuantan's role as a key logistics hub linked to Kuantan Port and MCKIP. While the ECRL's capital cost remains significant, Mohd Edil said the long-term returns can be realised if economic activity is stimulated around key freight corridors. Freight operations at Kuantan Port City 2, in particular, are projected to be a major revenue source. 'Over time, the multiplier effects on employment, local businesses and real estate are expected to support a positive return on investment,' he told TMR. But for this to materialise, he said the infrastructure must be closely linked to surrounding industrial activity, with clear freight incentives, efficient customs procedures and strong intermodal planning. Balancing Development, Managing Fiscal Risk Beyond the East Coast, Mohd Edil sees the ECRL as an opportunity to address Malaysia's persistent east-west economic imbalance. By connecting less-developed states to key urban markets, the rail line could attract capital into logistics, tourism and manufacturing in areas long neglected by mainstream investment flows. Improved logistics connectivity lowers the cost of moving goods, widens access to urban markets and increases investor confidence. For governments, this can translate into higher tax revenue, while firms benefit from reduced entry barriers. Over time, Mohd Edil expects private investment to cluster around stations such as Kuantan Port City 2 — particularly in sectors with existing momentum such as heavy industry, warehousing and real estate. However, he warns of key macroeconomic risks. 'One of the primary risks is its heavy reliance on foreign loans, particularly from a Chinese bank serving as the project's main financier. This exposes Malaysia to currency exchange risk, especially if the ringgit depreciates against the yuan or US dollar,' he said. Even if the loan terms are favourable — such as longer maturities and relatively low interest rates — Malaysia remains vulnerable if revenue projections underperform or freight traffic fails to materialise at scale. In such a case, debt servicing could strain public finances. Mohd Edil urged policymakers to manage currency and operational risks through efficiency, industrial integration and robust oversight to ensure that project benefits are delivered on the ground. Mohd Edil sees the ECRL as an opportunity to address Malaysia's persistent east-west economic imbalance (Pic courtesy of Mohd Edil Abd Sukor) Financial Inclusion, Regional Capital Market Spillovers Beyond infrastructure and logistics, ECRL could unlock broader financial participation in rural areas. 'As commerce and mobility increase, financial institutions may be more inclined to expand their branch networks or digital outreach in these areas, especially in underserved towns, improving access to credit and savings facilities for local entrepreneurs, smallholders and informal businesses,' Mohd Edil added. This shift could stimulate asset ownership, financial literacy and broader participation in Malaysia's formal economy, especially in areas like Jerantut, Kuala Lipis and interior Kelantan. At the national level, ECRL also provides opportunities for capital markets. As a BRI flagship, the project signals Malaysia's readiness to support large-scale infrastructure finance — including sukuk issuances, public-private partnerships and cross-border deals — making it a platform to attract international investors into BRI-linked projects. With the right incentives, ECRL could trigger financial innovation, ranging from syndicated infrastructure bonds to new financing models via Labuan, Sabah. Building Rail Talent Through Local Upskilling ECRL's operation phase is expected to create about 1,800 jobs. In May, Loke said ECRL Operation Sdn Bhd, a joint venture (JV) between Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd and CCCC, will manage the workforce, with operations scheduled starting in January 2027. He said at least 80% of the workers will be Malaysians in technical and operational roles. To meet this demand, the government is expanding the Program Latihan Kemahiran Industri ECRL (PLKI-ECRL) to include operations and maintenance (O&M) training. Launched in 2017, the programme is entering its next phase, targeting 3,200 local talents specifically for O&M roles. This year, 210 Malaysians will undergo a one-year intensive programme in Liuzhou, China, with the first 102 trainees having departed in May. Trainees will be prepared for roles including assistant station attendant, signalling technician, assistant train driver, overhead line technician, and emu maintenance technician. Loke also guaranteed employment for all PLKI-ECRL upon completion of the programme. 'The effort to develop the capability and competence of our local youth is a priority, so that Malaysia will not have to depend on foreign expertise in the long term,' he said. CCCC has contributed RM12 million to support the training programme, which forms part of its investment in developing a sustainable and localised rail workforce. From freight logistics and financial inclusion to SME development and industrial spill-overs, the ECRL's impact will depend on how well it is integrated into the real economy — and whether the gains it promises reach surrounding communities. This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition
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Business Standard
11-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
FM Sitharaman hails Meghalaya's growth, praises full use of SASCI funds
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday praised Meghalaya's progress under Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, calling the state a model of effective and purposeful development. She highlighted the state's exemplary utilisation of its entire allocation of ₹5,400 crore under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), setting an example for other states to follow. Speaking at a programme, Sitharaman said, "While some states are unable to fully utilise their shares, Meghalaya has effectively used its entire allocation to build capital assets. I will put on record my appreciation of Meghalaya's efforts." She reaffirmed the Centre's commitment to the Northeastern region, adding, "The government looks at the region as one to empower, act, strengthen and transform." The FM also pointed out key development achievements in the state, including the construction of over 540 km of roads and a five-fold increase in optical fibre coverage since 2014. She praised the state's performance in centrally sponsored schemes such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, PM Awas Yojana, PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and the Swachh Bharat Mission. CM Sangma, while addressing the gathering, said the state government follows a model of purpose-based, target-based, and result-based governance. He reaffirmed the government's ambition of making Meghalaya one of the top 10 states in India by 2032 and informed her that the state was now on the verge of becoming a $6-billion economy, with a growth rate nearing 15 per cent, significantly higher than the national average. The CM also highlighted how the state leveraged a large number of schemes and projects through Externally Aided Projects (EAPs), which have served as a key source of funding for smaller states. The total funding through EAPs is nearing ₹12,000 crore, supporting a wide range of development initiatives across Meghalaya, he said. A series of important projects were launched during Sitharaman's visit. Among them was the initiative to establish digital libraries in remote areas of the state, with a total budget of ₹162 crore under SASCI. Implemented by the State Rural Employment Society, the project aims to set up 750 digital libraries across rural areas, connecting youth to the National Digital Library and fostering a reading culture. The redevelopment of Umiam Lake was another key project inaugurated with a funding of ₹120.81 crore under SASCI. The initiative aims to transform the waterbody into a world-class eco-tourism hub, expected to attract over 1.27 lakh tourists annually and create nearly 4,000 jobs. Sitharaman also laid the foundation for the development of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and tourism infrastructure at Mawkhanu, with a total investment of ₹103 crore. Spread across 106 acres, the project includes a Meghalayan Experience Theme Park, an open-air amphitheatre, and festival zones designed to boost tourism beyond Shillong. A major highlight of the announcements was the proposed ₹732-crore Mawkhanu Football Stadium, a state-of-the-art complex with a residential football academy developed in partnership with NorthEast United FC. The project reinforces Meghalaya's reputation as the football capital of India. The FM also launched a project to construct working women's hostels with a total investment of ₹132 crore under SASCI. These hostels will provide safe and affordable accommodation, with 400 beds in Shillong and 200 beds each in Jowai, Byrnihat, and Tura. In addition, the Union minister inaugurated the office-cum-residential complex for the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) at New Shillong, with a budget of ₹256.23 crore, to strengthen administrative operations in the state. Another significant project was the launch of the Northeast Regional Campus of the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) at Mawkhanu. The₹ 100.95 crore campus, funded under the Prime Minister's Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE), will serve as a premier centre for corporate governance, economic research, and capacity-building. This marks the first time that the IICA is establishing a presence outside Delhi. A cheque distribution ceremony was also held, where beneficiaries of schemes such as PM MUDRA, PM SVANidhi, PMEGP, and NPS Vatsalya received financial support. In a significant boost to Meghalaya's organic farming sector, Sitharaman also flagged off a two-metric-tonne consignment of premium organic pineapples to LULU Retail in Dubai. This consignment, under the IFAD-supported Megha-LAMP initiative, was sourced from farmers of the Jirang Organics Farmer Producer Company in Ri-Bhoi. Speaking to reporters, Sitharaman said 92 villages in the state, located along the India-Bangladesh border, have been selected under the second phase of the Centre's Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) and will be designated as the "first villages of India." Sitharaman said the move underscores the strategic and development importance of border villages. Sitharaman highlighted that the VVP is part of a broader government initiative aimed at ensuring the development of villages along India's borders with countries such as Bangladesh, Myanmar, Tibet, China, and Nepal. The programme aims to transform remote and often neglected settlements into hubs of infrastructure, connectivity, livelihood, healthcare, and education, she added.
Los Angeles Times
22-06-2025
- Business
- Los Angeles Times
Navigating the Current Business Insurance and Employee Health Landscape
As the business environment evolves, leaders in Los Angeles face a complex landscape in business insurance and employee health benefits. Understanding current challenges, essential coverages, cost-saving strategies and emerging trends is crucial for informed decision-making that enhances organizational resilience and employee satisfaction. The business insurance market in Los Angeles is currently facing significant challenges, notably rising premium costs. Insurers are tightening underwriting standards, leading to more exclusions and higher deductibles, prompting businesses to reassess their risk management strategies. Additionally, California's evolving regulatory environment impacts various aspects of business operations, including insurance requirements. 1. Cyber Liability Insurance: Essential for protecting against data breaches and cyberattacks, especially in California's tech-heavy landscape. Cybersecurity Ventures predicts global cybercrime damages will reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. 2. Business Interruption Insurance: This coverage helps recover lost income due to unforeseen events, such as wildfires. A study by the Insurance Information Institute found that 40% of small businesses never reopen after a disaster, underscoring its importance. 3. Workers' Compensation Insurance: California continues to experience longer average claim duration and higher average indemnity costs than other states, according to WCIRB California. Ensuring compliance while providing adequate coverage for employees is critical. 4. General Liability Insurance: Vital for protecting against lawsuits related to injury or property damage, particularly in California's litigious environment. Business leaders can consider several cost-saving strategies to combat these challenges: 1. Risk Management Programs: Implementing comprehensive risk management can reduce claims and lower premiums. Organizations that actively manage risk can cut insurance costs by up to 30%, according to a report by Risk Management Society. 2. Bundling Policies: Many insurers offer discounts for bundling multiple policies, potentially leading to savings of 10% to 20% (Insurance Information Institute, 2023). 3. Self-Insurance: Larger organizations may find self-insurance a viable option, allowing them to retain some risk and reduce premium costs. 4. Regular Policy Reviews: Annual reviews of insurance policies can identify areas for cost savings, including coverage limits, deductibles and potential discounts. As competition for talent intensifies in Los Angeles, organizations are exploring innovative employee benefits to attract and retain top talent: 1. Mental Health Support: A 2024 SHRM study found that 45% of US workers expect higher levels of mental health support from employers. Offering Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health days, and counseling services is becoming common. 2. Flexible Work Arrangements: The shift to remote work has increased demand for flexible arrangements. While many companies have conducted a partial 'return to the office' for their employees, a 2024 McKinsey study revealed that 54% of workers prefer remote or hybrid work. With more remote workers, offerings such as telehealth continue to become more popular. 3. Wellness Programs: Comprehensive wellness programs, including fitness memberships and health screenings, are gaining traction. SHRM reported that 70% of organizations offered some form of wellness program in early 2024, with 65% of employers believing these programs positively impact employee retention. 4. Student Loan Repayment Assistance: As student debt burdens many employees, organizations are beginning to offer repayment assistance, appealing particularly to younger employees in competitive job markets such as LA. The employee benefits market in Los Angeles is influenced by regulatory changes and compliance requirements: 1. Affordable Care Act (ACA) Compliance: Ensuring compliance with ACA regulations, including providing affordable health insurance options, remains a priority. 2. California-Specific Regulations: California has unique laws regarding paid family leave and health benefits. Under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA), employers must provide at least 12 weeks of unpaid family leave with job protection, impacting benefits planning. 3. AI in Benefits Administration: The integration of AI is transforming how organizations manage employee health benefits. AI streamlines enrollment processes, enhances communication, and provides personalized recommendations. However, it also poses risks related to data privacy, security, and compliance that employers must consider. Navigating the current business insurance and employee health benefits landscape requires a proactive approach. By understanding market challenges, prioritizing essential coverages, implementing cost-saving strategies and embracing innovative employee benefits, organizations can enhance resilience and foster a supportive work environment. At Marsh McLennan Agency, we specialize in partnering with our clients to develop tailored insurance solutions and employee benefits strategies that meet unique business needs, control costs and enhance employee satisfaction. Reach out today to learn more about how we can help. Brian Hegarty, Principal & Managing Director, Los Angeles Marsh McLennan Agency
The Hindu
05-06-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Polavaram-Banakacherla project DPR being readied for submission to Centre: Naidu
Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu outlined the importance of the construction of the Polavaram-Banakacherla Irrigation Project with the Council of Ministers during a meeting held at the Secretariat in Amaravati on Wednesday. Mr. Naidu said that the project would cost an estimated ₹82,000 crore, for which the State government was preparing to submit the Detailed Project Report (DPR) to the Centre. This project would provide water for drinking, irrigation and industrial needs of the drought-prone Rayalaseema. The State government has almost finalised a financial model for the project, in coordination with the Centre. Minister for Information and Public Relations Kolusu Parthasarathy said that the State government had proposed to raise funds for the project from different sources, including 50% of funds in the form of loans under Externally Aided Projects (EAPs), 20% from the Centre, 10% from State government and the rest 20% under Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM). The Chief Minister also discussed the financial burden on the State exchequer for the welfare schemes such as Talliki Vandanam, aimed at providing annual financial assistance for schoolchildren. Mr. Naidu said that the Annadata Sukhibhavascheme is likely to be launched this month for the benefit of the farmers. Mr. Naidu asked the Cabinet Ministers to ensure a grand success of the Yoga Day by encouraging more participants. On the other hand, the Ministers and Mr. Naidu opined to postpone the celebrations of one-year completion of the NDA government in Andhra Pradesh due to various other programmes scheduled for this month.
