Prior to initiating hippotherapy for a child, which items are required?

• A. Have parent complete history and liability forms, physician verification of no known atlantoaxial instability or focal neurological disorder, physician referral if required by state law, complete initial evaluation of child
• B. Parent completes forms only
• C. Full genetic panel
• D. No forms are required

Answer: (A)

Safety screening and medical clearance are essential before starting hippotherapy. Before initiating therapy for a child, several requirements help protect the child and guide treatment: the parent completes history and liability forms to document consent and awareness of risks; a physician verifies there is no known atlantoaxial instability or focal neurological disorder, addressing cervical spine safety specific to riding activities; a physician referral is provided if state law requires medical oversight or authorization; and a complete initial evaluation of the child is performed to establish baseline status, identify goals, and tailor the therapy plan. These steps ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and individualized planning. A full genetic panel isn’t part of the standard pre-hippotherapy clearance, and proceeding with no forms would miss critical safety and regulatory checks.