Latest news with #IOP


Business News Wales
4 days ago
- General
- Business News Wales
New Project Awarded £1.8m to Boost Science in Schools
An education project led by the Institute of Physics (IOP) has been awarded more than £1.8 million through the Curriculum for Wales grant support programme. Details of the funding for 'Boosting Science Education in Wales,' a partnership between the IOP, the Royal Society of Chemistry and Science Made Simple, were announced by Welsh Government. The project will deliver a suite of support activities for teachers and technicians, working from early years through to GCSE level and will cover professional development, specialised coaching and mentoring. It will also produce bilingual science teaching resources and deliver a series of confidence-boosting workshops for primary and secondary school teachers and technicians. The programme will deliver more than 250 activities and events over three years, and work with schools across the length and breadth of Wales. Emma Tamplin, the IOP's Learning and Skills Manager for Wales, said: 'We're delighted to have been awarded this funding, which is aimed at bringing the new curriculum in the sciences to life. Scientific literacy is a key skill for work and for life. Physics alone supports more than 100,000 jobs in Wales, but science also teaches us the critical thinking skills we need to be engaged citizens. 'Our approach puts teachers and technicians at the heart of our work, recognising that inspiring and confident teachers can transform their students' lives. By working with this generation of teachers, we hope that our project will inspire future generations with a love of science, and a curiosity about the world we live in.'


Time Business News
14-05-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Your Essential Companion for a Seamless IOP Startup
Launching an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) begins with a clear clinical blueprint. Determine your treatment philosophy—whether it's trauma-informed care, evidence-based modalities like CBT or DBT, or a hybrid model. Decide on the level of care you'll provide, including the number of therapy hours per week, group versus individual sessions, and inclusion of psychiatric services. This foundational structure will drive your staffing, scheduling, and regulatory strategy, so define it early and with precision. Starting an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) requires careful planning and a clear understanding of regulatory and clinical requirements. First, assess the need for such a program within your community, considering factors like demographics, local mental health statistics, and available services. You'll need to secure the proper licensing, qualified staff, and appropriate facility. Develop a comprehensive treatment model and ensure you have the necessary infrastructure to provide quality care. In order to effectively launch, understanding how to start an IOP program involves aligning treatment strategies with state regulations, insurance requirements, and patient needs to create a successful program. Every IOP must operate under state licensure and, in many cases, adhere to national standards such as CARF or JCAHO accreditation. Begin by researching your state's department of health or substance use services requirements. Many states require a detailed program narrative, clinical policies and procedures, safety plans, and proof of qualified staff. Additionally, comply with zoning laws and fire codes before securing your physical space. Early engagement with a licensing consultant or attorney can prevent missteps that delay your launch. Develop a business model that reflects both mission and market realities. Forecast startup costs, including rent, staffing, electronic health record systems, and marketing. Establish revenue projections based on estimated census, payer mix, and reimbursement rates. Decide whether you'll accept private insurance, Medicaid, or operate on a private pay model. Your financial plan should include a sustainability strategy for the first 12–18 months as client volume builds. An IOP requires a location that is both accessible and conducive to recovery. Choose a space with ample room for group therapy, private sessions, and administrative functions. Ensure the environment is welcoming and discreet—ideally near public transit or with sufficient parking. The right location not only meets logistical needs but also supports client engagement and retention. Staff your IOP with professionals who meet state licensure requirements and share your program's therapeutic values. At minimum, you'll need licensed therapists, a clinical supervisor, and a medical provider if offering psychiatric care. Consider adding peer support specialists, case managers, or expressive therapists for a more holistic approach. Thorough training in crisis management, HIPAA compliance, and your program's clinical protocols is non-negotiable. Create a treatment schedule that balances clinical intensity with client flexibility. Design weekly programming that includes group therapy, psychoeducation, skills training, and individualized treatment planning. Use standardized assessment tools to track outcomes and adjust care plans. Automate intake, documentation, and billing workflows using a behavioral health-specific EHR system. This operational clarity ensures clinical consistency and staff efficiency from day one. Begin community outreach before your doors open. Build referral relationships with local therapists, hospitals, school counselors, and employee assistance programs. Invest in digital marketing, especially local SEO, and claim profiles on mental health directories. Highlight your program's unique offerings, accreditation status, and insurance acceptance. A well-timed and intentional launch campaign can build your initial census and reputation simultaneously. The healthcare landscape is evolving rapidly, with increased demand for integrated and specialized care services. As a result, investors and providers alike are seeking opportunities to expand market presence and improve service delivery through strategic deals. Carefully structured partnerships offer scalability, operational efficiencies, and enhanced clinical capabilities. At the heart of these industry changes lies behavioral health mergers and acquisitions, which are driving consolidation and innovation across the sector. These transactions not only align business goals but also help meet community needs more effectively. With proper due diligence, organizations can navigate change while preserving mission-driven care. Starting an IOP is a meaningful yet multifaceted endeavor. From clinical design and compliance to staffing and marketing, every step must be executed with care and strategic intent. This guide provides a roadmap to launching not just an operational program, but a healing environment rooted in quality care and long-term sustainability. With the right structure, people, and vision, your IOP can become a critical lifeline for individuals on their path to recovery. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
23-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Just 15 percent of young Americans say country is heading in right direction
Just 15 percent of young Americans say they think the country is headed in the right direction, according to the latest Harvard Youth Poll. The poll released Wednesday found 51 percent of surveyed Americans under 30 say the U.S. is on the wrong track, and 31 percent are unsure, 'underscoring a generation defined by political pessimism and uncertainty,' researchers at the Institute of Politics (IOP) at Harvard Kennedy School said. The remaining 3 percent of respondents declined to answer. Just a quarter of young Americans said the country is better off under President Trump, while 41 percent said they think it was better under former President Biden. At the same time, trust in congressional Democrats has dropped to 23 percent from the 42 percent logged around this time in Trump's first term. Trump's approval rating among young people, now at 31 percent, is roughly unchanged from the 32 percent recorded at this point in his first term. Only 19 percent of young Americans trust the federal government to do the 'right thing' most of the time, and fewer than 1 in 3 trust each of Congress, the president and the Supreme Court. 'From significant economic concerns to dramatic feelings of social isolation, and from growing mental health challenges to mounting distrust in the government and both parties, young Americans have apprehensions about what would have seemed unimaginable just a few short years ago,' said IOP Director Setti Warren. 'These findings are a stark reality check and leaders across the country would be wise to pay close attention.' Young voters have long favored Democrats and boosted Biden to victory in 2020. Former Vice President Kamala Harris won young voters in the 2024 election but by a smaller margin than her predecessor as voters — particularly young men — shifted to the right. Progressive young voter groups in recent weeks have blasted Democratic leadership on Capitol Hill, arguing top party figures are failing to meet the moment and take a firm enough stance against the second Trump administration. But the polling also found that, out of nine proposals tested, none of Trump's agenda items pulled in more than 35 percent support. Creating the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) had the highest support, at 35 percent. Two in 10 young Americans or less approved of Trump's moves to abolish the Department of Education, implement tariffs on foreign goods and pardon people convicted in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. More than 4 in 10 young Americans in the poll said they're 'barely getting by' financially, with women and non-college educated young people hit the hardest. Among those who said they're struggling to make ends meet or getting by with limited financial security, 51 percent said they think Trump's policies will hurt their finances in the years ahead. The polling also found that less than half, or 48 percent, of young Americans said having kids is important — the lowest score among six tested life goals, including getting married and home ownership. This finding comes amid reports that the Trump administration is floating proposals aimed at upping the country's birth rates. The spring 2025 Harvard Youth Poll surveyed 2,096 young Americans between 18 and 29 years old and was conducted March 14-25. The margin of error was plus or minus 3.21 percentage points. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.


The Hill
23-04-2025
- Politics
- The Hill
Just 15 percent of young Americans say country is heading in right direction
Just 15 percent of young Americans say they think the country is headed in the right direction, according to the latest Harvard Youth Poll. The poll released Wednesday found 51 percent of Americans under 30 say the U.S. is on the wrong track and 31 percent are unsure, 'underscoring a generation defined by political pessimism and uncertainty,' researchers at the Institute of Politics (IOP) at Harvard Kennedy School said. The remaining 3 percent declined to answer. Just a quarter of young Americans said the country is better off under President Trump, while 41 percent said they think it was better under former President Biden. At the same time, trust in congressional Democrats has dropped to 23 percent from the 42 percent logged around this time in Trump's first term. Trump's approval rating among young people, now at 31 percent, is roughly unchanged from 32 percent at this point in his first term. Only 19 percent of young Americans trust the federal government to do the 'right thing' most of the time, and fewer than 1 in 3 trust each of Congress, the president and the Supreme Court. 'From significant economic concerns to dramatic feelings of social isolation, and from growing mental health challenges to mounting distrust in the government and both parties, young Americans have apprehensions about what would have seemed unimaginable just a few short years ago,' said IOP director Setti Warren. 'These findings are a stark reality check and leaders across the country would be wise to pay close attention.' Young voters have long favored Democrats and boosted Biden to victory in 2020. Former Vice President Kamala Harris won young voters in the 2024 election but by a smaller margin than her predecessor as voters — particularly young men — shifted to the right. Progressive young voter groups in recent weeks have blasted Democratic leadership on Capitol Hill, arguing top party figures are failing to meet the moment and take a firm enough stance against the second Trump administration. But the polling also found that, out of nine proposals tested, none of Trump's agenda items pulled in more than 35 percent support. Creating the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) had the highest support, at 35 percent. Two in 10 young Americans or fewer approved of Trump's moves to abolish the Department of Education, implement tariffs on foreign goods and pardon people convicted in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. More than 4 in 10 young Americans in the poll said they're 'barely getting by' financially, with women and non-college educated young people hit the hardest. Among those who said they're struggling to make ends meet or getting by with limited financial security, 51 percent said they think Trump's policies will hurt their finances in the years ahead. The polling also found that less than half, or 48 percent, of young Americans said having kids is important — the lowest score among six tested life goals, including getting married and homeownership. This finding comes amid reports that the Trump administration is floating proposals aimed at upping the country's birth rates. The spring 2025 Harvard Youth Poll surveyed 2,096 young Americans between 18 and 29 years old and was conducted March 14-25. The margin of error was plus or minus 3.21 percentage points.

Associated Press
24-02-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Compass Health announces the Marc Healing Center as name of state-of-the-art regional facility for intensive behavioral health services
EVERETT, Wash., Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On Broadway Avenue in Everett's core, the future of behavioral health is taking shape. Phase II of Compass Health's Broadway Campus Redevelopment is nearing completion, and soon the community will see the new 70,000-square-foot facility adorned with vibrant finishes, landscaping, and most notably, an official name: the Marc Healing Center. For the purpose-built facility designed to meet the most intensive behavioral health needs of Northwest Washington, the name the Marc Healing Center reflects the impactful care that will take place within its walls and honors the dedicated professionals who will deliver it. The focal point of the name, 'Marc,' represents Marcelene Lowes, a long-standing Compass Health team member whose story epitomizes the heart and soul of the work that will happen at Phase II, making her a fitting namesake for the center. 'When we think about our new facility, the structure and design is important but ultimately, what makes the biggest difference are our team members who fill it every day. They are the connection point to care, to recovery, and to healing,' said Tom Sebastian, CEO of Compass Health. 'Marcelene is a tremendous example of what that connection can look like, and what it can foster. In naming the building after her, we're hoping to illuminate every person within our organization – past, present, and future – who embodies that same commitment.' To arrive at the name the Marc Healing Center, Compass Health formed a committee of individuals from various departments across the organization who quickly determined that it should honor frontline team members. In discussions, Lowes – who is known to her colleagues and clients as 'Marc' – rose to the forefront. Lowes, a clinician for Compass Health's Snohomish County Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), has had a remarkable journey with the organization – starting in a facility kitchen 40 years ago and quickly discovering her passion for IOP. She has dedicated her entire career to helping the community's most vulnerable members, building decades-long relationships with clients and co-workers, and establishing herself as a trusted figure in their lives and someone they can always rely on. Lowes' story inspired the term 'Healing Center,' as it powerfully conveys the transformative impact that quality intensive care can have, and it represents what the facility will offer to everyone who walks through its doors. 'Our clients are exceptional people,' Lowes said. 'They may be facing significant challenges, but they don't let that stop them from showing kindness and care. It's a privilege to be someone who shows up for them in that same way – and is committed to helping them, no matter the circumstances. That commitment is shared across our organization and is what really allows us to leave such a meaningful mark on our clients' lives. Sometimes all people need is for someone to hear and see them. At Compass Health, we're here to do just that.' Slated for completion in summer 2025, the Marc Healing Center will house several intensive behavioral health services, including a 16-bed evaluation and treatment unit (E&T); a 16-bed crisis triage center; intensive outpatient behavioral health services; and offices for crisis prevention, outreach and community engagement teams. These programs are critical for addressing Northwest Washington's behavioral health needs while also alleviating demand for local resources like hospitals, law enforcement and community responders. By allowing ambulance and law enforcement drop-offs at the crisis triage center and accepting referrals from hospitals at the evaluation and treatment unit, the facility will help ensure individuals receive the right level of care when they need it most. The Marc Healing Center serves as the centerpiece of Compass Health's three-phase Broadway Campus Redevelopment. Andy's Place, Phase I of the redevelopment, opened in May 2021 and provides 82 units of permanent supportive housing to formerly homeless individuals who are living with chronic behavioral health challenges. Phase III will focus on integrating behavioral health services with a primary health care clinic. 'The Marc Healing Center represents so much: a safe haven for individuals struggling with severe behavioral health challenges, a resource to alleviate demand on our local response, a magnet for future behavioral health professionals, and a regional solution to some of our community's most visible and pressing needs,' said Sebastian. 'This name is the perfect reflection of what this building stands for and couldn't be more aligned with the broader vision for the entire campus redevelopment.' Compass Health has received support from a combination of public, private, and philanthropic sources to fund the majority of the $71 million project, including a significant investment from the State of Washington, along with contributions from Snohomish County, the City of Everett, and the federal New Markets Tax Credit program. To help cross the funding finish line, Compass Health also launched its first-ever capital campaign, It's Time: The Campaign for Compass Health. The campaign is nearing its $14 million goal, with contributions from lead funders, including the Sunderland Foundation, Coastal Community Bank, the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, the Norcliffe Foundation, and Premera Blue Cross. The organization also received federal Human Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) funding with the support of U.S. Representative Rick Larsen, as well as a number of significant lead gifts from individual and family donors. For more information about the Marc Healing Center and Compass Health's Broadway Campus Redevelopment, visit To learn more about and donate to the It's Time Capital Campaign, visit Compass Health is Northwest Washington's behavioral healthcare leader. A community-based healthcare agency, Compass Health integrates behavioral health and medical care services to form a key section of the community safety net and serve clients and others in need of care and support. From comprehensive mental health treatment to crisis prevention and intervention, supportive housing, children's services, community education and much more, the non-profit organization serves people of all ages throughout Snohomish, Skagit, Island, San Juan, and Whatcom counties. Media Contacts: Annie Alley Firmani + Associates Inc. (206) 466-2713 Jaki Brophy