Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people who are 65 and over. If you are under 65, you may be eligible to get Medicare earlier if you have a disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), or ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Medicare is divided into four parts: Medicare Part A is insurance for hospitalization, home or skilled nursing, and hospice. Medicare Part B is medical insurance.  Learn about canceling Medicare Part A or Part B coverage, including its risks. Or, if you are ready to cancel your coverage, you can submit CMS Form 1763 to your local Social Security office. Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans) is a private insurance option that covers hospital and medical costs. Medicare Part D covers prescription medications. Learn more about Medicare, including: How it works How to prepare to sign up and submit a Medicare application Find out what Medicare costs based on what coverage you choose.