REHABILITATING DREAMS

INTERSECTORAL STRATEGIES THROUGH HIPPOTHERAPY

Abstract

To describe the experience of the implementation of the Rehabilitating Dreams project through Hippotherapy in the municipality of Madalena/Ceará. This is an experience report on the process of implantation and implementation of an Equine Therapy service in the Unified Health System of Madalena, Ceará, Brazil. The study was carried out based on the experience of managers, who participated in the process of implementing the service, based on experience reports and field diaries. A solid intersectoral link established during the construction phase of the project is evidenced, involving effective collaboration between the Municipal Health Department, the Municipal Administration and private sector partners. During 2022, 252 Hippotherapy sessions were held, serving 35 children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, behavioral disorders, neuropsychomotor development delay, physical disability, multiple disability and cerebral palsy. This study indicates that the insertion of an Hippotherapy program in the context of the Unified Health System is an effective approach to the rehabilitation of children with various disabilities. Substantial benefits have been noted for the promotion of comprehensive and comprehensive care for these children.