Thus in 1982, the government added hospice benefits to aid the elderly on a temporary basis (Medicare.gov, 2012).

The bill also created a hospice benefit to the Medicare program for the terminally ill with a 1986 sunset provision.

It allowed States to add a hospice benefit to the Medical program.

Thirteen states have already taken steps to provide hospice benefits under Medicaid.

"We will continue to recover misspent Medicare funds from companies that abuse the hospice benefit."

Most, but not all, private insurance programs offer a hospice benefit.

It is important to research whether your health insurance coverage offers hospice benefits and determine exactly which services are included.

Congress finally included a hospice benefit in Medicare in 1982.

You can also re-apply for hospice benefits at a later time if needed.

Private insurance companies also have increasingly provided hospice benefits to employees.