I would think this is an unusual case. I also know several therapists who have been
using hippotherapy for years...for example, Tidman Therapy in New Mexico...perhaps a
bit of networking would clarify the issues.
"Lisa M. Dean" wrote:
> Dear List,
>
> I am primarily a lurker on this list but now have a little to contribute in regards
>to a possible reimbursement issue. I am an OT who will frequently utilize
>hippotherapy as a treatment tool. Hippotherapy is a specialized area much like
>sensory integration, hand specialties, etc. In fact the American Hippotherapy
>Association in conjunction with AOTA and APTA, have developed a board certification
>to ensure that individuals who utilize this highly specialized treatment tool have
>the appropriate education and training. SLP's are also able to utilize hippotherapy
>as a treatment tool. Being a treatment tool, hippotherapy is in the same category
>as a swing, physio ball, scooter boards, etc. except more powerful. Riding skills
>are not taught.
>
> Now that the brief background is covered here is the issue. A PT in Maryland has
>been utilizing hippotherapy as a treatment tool for many years. she has appropriate
>documentation and also includes carry over activities in a traditional therapy room
>setting. After years of providing hippot, blue cross and blue shield audited her
>private practice and asked for $56,000 back from her. With the backing of AHA, she
>went to court and won. In addition, APTA and AOTA wrote letters stating the
>utilization of hippotherapy is within the individual practice acts and an appropriate
>treatment tool. The court decided Hippotherapy was an appropriate tool to be used by
>individuals with the appropriate training. However, after the battle was won, the
>decision went be for the state insurance commisioner who over turned the decision,
>forcing this PT to pay back the said amount. He Stated that insurance have a right
>to dictate to therapists the treatment tools utilized during therapy an!
d !
> also stating hippotherapy was experimental. However, if one does the research, one
>will find more documentation regarding the benefits of hippotherapy than the use of a
>physio ball.
>
> Now for the meat of the issue. When does the insurance industry have the right to
>dictate what treatment tools we utilize to achieve functional goals? AHA has since
>offered to pay some of the cost for the attorney's during the appeal, however, the
>funding is limited. I myself, would like to see AOTA and APTA become more involved.
>I would hate to see this court case become the basis from which insurance companies
>set the standards for how we practice our respective disciplines.
>
> What does this list think.
> Lisa
>
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