Some insurance plans may soon have to cover hippotherapy – a form of physical, occupational, and speech therapy involving the movement of horses while riding them.  This provision is part of Senate Bill 69, which awaits the signature of Governor J.B. Pritzker. 

Hippotherapy is used for conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, arthritis, head and spinal cord injuries, and behavioral and psychiatric disorders.  Typically, a licensed therapist and a professional horse handler work together with the patient during consultations.  Planning these visits entails determining the ideal exercises and horse breeds for the given patient. 

Marita Wassman is the founder of Ride On St. Louis, a nonprofit organization which provides equine services.  She says clients have seen benefits including improved health and physical capabilities, along with an increased sense of engagement.  In some cases, these outcomes can arrive far sooner than more traditional forms of therapy. 

Senate Bill 69 passed the Illinois Senate unanimously in April, followed by the House in late May.