Introduction: Hippotherapy, or treatment using the movement of horse, is a tool used by occupational, physical and speech therapists as part of a medical treatment plan. The movement of the horse provides multisensory, repetitive input that mimics human gait. This tool has unique applications for the occupational therapy (OT) practitioner that is supported by a growing body of research. However, the specialized nature of this intervention, including animal care and additional staffing costs, presents potential funding challenges that are a universal issue. This session will review current evidence for the use of hippotherapy in OT practice and present survey findings that describe funding models, challenges, and potential solutions to help ensure access.
Objectives: 1) Describe the therapeutic benefits of the movement of the horse. 2) Explain the application of hippotherapy in OT practice. 3) Identify possible funding challenges and mitigation strategies.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey on payment practices was distributed to a convenience sample of U.S. licensed therapists. Results were analyzed using a mixed methods approach.
Results: Survey respondents included 67 therapists currently incorporating hippotherapy in their practice. Private pay methods were used by 54% of respondents and insurance billing by 46%. Of those using private pay methods, 67% reported that they were considering insurance billing. Barriers to billing insurance when using hippotherapy included navigating insurance policies/procedures, reimbursement rates and administrative processes. Qualitative results identified supplemental funding strategies that were used in both groups.
Conclusion: This session provides insight on the use of hippotherapy within occupational therapy practice including funding structures and insurance barriers. As the added costs and staffing needs of using hippotherapy are universal considerations, these findings offer insights that can be applied globally.