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Medical Price Roulette
Man relieved of $1.7 mllion debt relief
An update on the story of Alexis Hernandez, who fought to survive after an explosion only to be hit with a $1.7 million medical debt for his treatment at a burn center in Brooke Army Medical center. While his debt was finally waived after the story and urgings of legislators, others with similar stories still face their huge medical bills. Anna Werner reports
COVID long-haulers may face financial hurdles
Some long-haulers suffering from long-term coronavirus symptoms are now facing financial challenges as well. Anna Werner spoke with several people who faced challenges getting disability and health care coverage.
Some Cologuard users hit with unexpected high bills after cancer test
"I am mad because I pay so much every month for this insurance," on Cologuard user told CBS News. "I just feel like I'm really getting raked over."
Man billed $1.7 million by government for life-saving burn treatment
"I never expected, never in my life to live through something like this," Alexis Hernandez told CBS News' Anna Werner.
Company pauses plan to send 9,000 back to office after pushback
Epic Systems, a medical records software company, "is going to have to adhere by the same rules as everyone else," a local official said.
COVID-19 tests should be free, but these people still got big bills
People returning to their jobs could wind up having to pay for COVID-19 tests, experts warn.
His coronavirus test wasn't processed, but he got billed $9,000
Congress passed a law making coronavirus tests free, but all costs may not be covered by all insurers.
Alabama couple struggling after hospital sues over medical debt
KC and Daryl Roberts were paying what they could each month toward the more than $30,000 hospital bill.
Woman fighting with insurance for follow-up breast cancer tests
Mammograms can save lives, but in some cases, insurance companies are refusing to cover follow-up tests ordered by doctors.
Women shocked by "hidden" cost of mammograms
Health insurance covers mammograms every one to two years, but many women often need secondary tests that aren't covered
Man drives five hours for surgery insurance won't cover
Around the country, middle-class Americans with high-deductible insurance plans are heading to dozens of cash-based surgery centers
Regulators want to change law after CBS News report
"After hearing about — and resolving — a recent issue, we know that if it could happen to one consumer, it could happen to others"
Even with insurance, woman hit with $40,000 in medical bills
When Molly McKenna went to a clinic in agonizing pain, doctors told her it was an emergency. Only later did she learn much of her treatment was out-of-network
How to find out health care costs in advance
How much will that cost? Why did that cost so much? Always ask. Take notes, take names, take numbers
Man hit with $650,000 in medical bills finally gets relief
Frank Esposito was hit with $650,000 in medical bills after his insurance company said his surgery didn't qualify as an emergency
Medical bills jump from $220 to $4,000 a month – for treatment her life depends on
"I was like, how is this even possible?" one patient said of the unpredictable charges
She needed two rounds of ultrasound exams. Why did one cost 10 times more?
Medical prices vary greatly, even within the same city. "It's either unethical or dishonest," said one patient hit with a surprise bill
Ways to save on health care costs
ClearHealthCosts offers some practical tips to help you beat back your health care costs
How to read a medical bill or explanation of benefits
An insurance company's "explanation of benefits" often confuses matters more
Back surgery saved him from paralysis. Then the bills arrived: over $650,000
Frank Esposito, a tool and die maker from Long Island, New York, drained $49,000 from his retirement account and still owes over $220,000
Appealing a claim denial, or how to turn "no" into "yes"
If your insurance company denied a treatment or a medication in advance, and you want help, here's where to start
10 steps for appealing a claim or bill
So you got a huge bill, and you're sure there's been a mistake. Here's a step-by-step course of action
CBS News investigates lack of transparency in health care prices
"Nothing about the United States' health care system really makes sense," one doctor said
Health
Baby formula supplies dwindle amid widening shortage
FDA working to boost formula supplies, with more than half of popular products out of stock in some U.S. states.
Omicron surge adds complications to U.S. economy
The spread of the Omicron variant is causing an additional complication to the U.S. economy, which is already struggling with high inflation and a supply chain crisis. And data shows nearly 9 million Americans were out of work in January because they were caring for someone with COVID-19 or being ill with the virus themselves. Joshua Hausman, associate professor of public policy and economics at the University Of Michigan and research associate at the National Bureau Of Economic Research, joins CBSN's Lana Zak with more.
FDA works to approve vaccines for kids under 5
The White House is now working to provide Americans with free N95 masks and at-home COVID-19 test kits. Meanwhile, the Food and Drug Administration is reviewing the vaccines for kids under the age of 5. Emergency medicine physician Dr. Owais Durrani joins CBSN's Lana Zak to discuss the latest efforts to combat the virus.
Kids' COVID-19 hospitalizations on the rise
COVID-19 hospitalizations for children are climbing, with an average of more than 900 kids admitted a day. CBS News' Michael George reports, then Dr. Gigi Chawla, chief of pediatrics at Children's Hospital and Clinics of Minnesota, joins CBSN to discuss the latest.
COVID-19 infections rising in kids
CBS News correspondent Carter Evans reports on a rise in pediatric COVID-19 cases in communities like Kansas City, Missouri. Then Dr. Bob Lahita, director of the Institute for Autoimmune and Rheumatic Diseases at St. Joseph Health and a professor of medicine at New York Medical College, joins CBSN to discuss the latest on COVID-19.
COVID vaccines don't affect fertility, study finds
Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 does not reduce the chances of getting pregnant, new research shows. Meanwhile, as the Omicron variant continues to strain hospitals, military troops are deploying to help. CBS News' Bradley Blackburn has more on the pandemic response.
Omicron batters states with low vaccination rates
Thursday marks two years since the first case of COVID-19 was reported in the U.S. CBS News' Bradley Blackburn has more on how the virus is impacting states with low vaccination rates, and the battle over masks in schools. Then, emergency medicine physician Dr. Anand Swaminathan joins CBSN's Lana Zak to discuss the latest.
U.S. debuts site for free at-home COVID tests
Some hospitals are overwhelmed, facing an influx of COVID-19 patients. Meanwhile, Pfizer says that its oral pill is showing efficacy against Omicron in lab tests. Dr. Jen Caudle joins CBSN to break down some of the latest coronavirus headlines.
Omicron continues to overwhelm U.S. hospitals
The Biden administration is planning to give out 400 million free N95 masks to Americans in the coming weeks as the coronavirus surge tightens its grip on hospitals in hard-hit areas of the country. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans reports from Missouri, where COVID-19 hospitalizations are rising among the unvaccinated. Then, Dr. Payal Patel, an infectious disease physician at the University of Michigan Medical School, joins CBSN's Lana Zak to discuss the latest.
North Carolina hospitals overwhelmed
COVID-19 infections are continuing to surge in parts of the U.S. In North Carolina, recent data shows one in three people tested positive for the virus. And some local hospitals are struggling to keep up. CBS News national correspondent Manuel Bojorquez reports from Charlotte.
U.S.
More U.S.
No relief in sight for U.S. drivers as gas and diesel prices surge
The Iran war and Russia-Ukraine conflict are knocking out global refining capacity, pushing fuel prices higher, analysts said.
F-16 from Texas crashes in Michigan, evacuation order issued
Blair Township Supervisor Nicole Blonshine said she was told the aircraft was an F-16 but does not have "100% confirmation." The pilot parachuted out before it crashed, she said.
Senate Democrat blocks bill to shield Americans from data center energy costs
One Senate Democrat scuttled a Republican-led effort to pass legislation aimed at shielding Americans from energy costs attributed to data centers, saying it didn't go far enough.
What the Fed's rate hike reveals about Warsh, Trump and inflation
The Fed's first rate hike in more than three years underscores the challenge of taming inflation as the Iran war drags on.
White House withdraws ICE director nominee Richard Schroyer
Richard Schroyer's nomination was held up in the Senate. The White House eventually pulled it.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
No relief in sight for U.S. drivers as gas and diesel prices surge
The Iran war and Russia-Ukraine conflict are knocking out global refining capacity, pushing fuel prices higher, analysts said.
What the Fed's rate hike reveals about Warsh, Trump and inflation
The Fed's first rate hike in more than three years underscores the challenge of taming inflation as the Iran war drags on.
1 in 3 Americans with health insurance have medical debt, survey finds
Nearly half of Americans with medical debt owe at least $2,000, forcing them to make tough choices, new research shows.
Millionaires are everywhere in the U.S., new book says
Getting rich in the U.S. is still possible, but the most common path to wealth doesn't involve working for other people, according to a new book.
OpenAI reveals 6 more incidents of "unexpected or concerning" AI behavior
OpenAI has disclosed six reports of "unexpected or concerning" behavior in artificial intelligence models as the debate on AI safety becomes increasingly heated.
Politics
More Politics
Senate Democrat blocks bill to shield Americans from data center energy costs
One Senate Democrat scuttled a Republican-led effort to pass legislation aimed at shielding Americans from energy costs attributed to data centers, saying it didn't go far enough.
White House withdraws ICE director nominee Richard Schroyer
Richard Schroyer's nomination was held up in the Senate. The White House eventually pulled it.
Iran downed at least 2 American drones in recent days, U.S. officials say
Iranian forces in recent days have brought down at least two American MQ-1 unmanned aircraft, according to U.S. officials familiar with the matter.
Former U.S. Sen. Jon Kyl of Arizona dies at 84
Former U.S. Sen. Jon Kyl, who represented Arizona in both chambers of Congress over nearly three decades, has died at 84.
Canada, EU look to forge an "Alliance for the Future" amid Trump threats
Canada's leader draws regular scorn from President Trump, but European leaders gave him a standing ovation as they aim to push their ties to "the highest level."
HealthWatch
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1 in 3 Americans with health insurance have medical debt, survey finds
Nearly half of Americans with medical debt owe at least $2,000, forcing them to make tough choices, new research shows.
How Olympian Aly Raisman learned to advocate for her own health
In the latest episode of "Healthful," Olympic gold medalist Aly Raisman discusses what she's learned about speaking up for herself and taking care of her body.
Investigation
A trusted seal made websites look legit. The weight-loss drug they sold wasn't.
Selling retatrutide commercially is prohibited by federal law. Yet, companies have promoted the drug on social media, thanks in part to being certified by LegitScript.
Outcome of employment lawsuit could promote use of skimpy health plans
A long-running lawsuit challenging what it means to be an employee and therefore have access to work-based health plans is being closely watched by health policy analysts.
Pennsylvania woman dies of measles complications, coroner reports
A 40-year-old woman died on Saturday from complications associated with measles, the coroner reported.
World
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Iran downed at least 2 American drones in recent days, U.S. officials say
Iranian forces in recent days have brought down at least two American MQ-1 unmanned aircraft, according to U.S. officials familiar with the matter.
Canada, EU look to forge an "Alliance for the Future" amid Trump threats
Canada's leader draws regular scorn from President Trump, but European leaders gave him a standing ovation as they aim to push their ties to "the highest level."
Princess Diana's brother claims Charles told him, "we'll forget her soon"
The late Prince Diana's brother claims in a new book that King Charles had "contempt" for his ex-wife, telling him she would be forgotten "soon enough."
1,700-year-old fragment of "Odyssey" discovered inside library book
The paper was found inside a collection of early Christian manuscripts purchased by Utrecht University in the mid-20th century.
Possible U.S. war crimes in Iran cited by U.N.-backed experts
Human rights experts commissioned by the U.N.'s top human rights body say they have found "reasonable grounds" to believe the United States committed war crimes in two strikes in Iran.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
From the archives: Bob Mackie on being dressmaker to the stars
Nine-time Emmy-winning costume designer Bob Mackie, who clothed such musical and comedic talents as Cher, Carol Burnett, Barbra Streisand and Liza Minnelli, died on Sept. 14, 2026 at age 87. In this Sept. 21, 2003 "Sunday Morning" profile, Mackie talked with correspondent Rita Braver about how a star-struck kid growing up outside Hollywood became a dressmaker to the stars, and what fascinates him about divas. He also talked about the tragic death of his son, Robin, from AIDS.
Jacob Tremblay on starring in "Unabomber"
Jacob Tremblay, who stars in Netflix's new film, "Unabomber," sits down with "CBS Mornings" to discuss his career, working with Russell Crowe and what it was like to play a young Ted Kaczynski.
Global Citizen founder explains motivations
The 2026 Global Citizen Festival kicks off in New York City's Central Park in late September. Global Citizen co-founder Hugh Evans explains the charity work his organization does.
Sheeran torched over Macklemore tour ousting
Ed Sheeran is facing intense public backlash after rapper Macklemore, who was set to open his upcoming tour dates, was dropped from the production over pro-Palestine comments. CBS News' Shanelle Kaul reports and Alex Suskind, news director at online music magazine Pitchfork, joins "The Daily Report" to discuss.
Judge Judy's son takes up the gavel in new show
Judge Judy has been a staple of daytime TV for 30 years, but now televised courts are becoming a family affair with her son, Adam Levy, picking up the gavel and donning the robe for "Adam's Law." Judge Levy joins CBS News to preview the new show.
Technology
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Technology
AI's impact on warfare and weapons
Amid recent warnings by AI leaders over the risks of rapid tech development, Leigh Kiniry reports on how terrorist groups take advantage of AI.
King Charles warns of AI dangers
Britain's King Charles III hosted a summit with tech leaders about the dangers of artificial intelligence. This comes amid an Anthropic report warning that terror groups have attempted to use Claude to develop weapons. CBS News' Leigh Kiniry reports.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Coast Guard concerned about AI crime
The U.S. is investigating cyberattacks on two energy tankers to determine whether Iran was involved. CBS News' Nicole Sganga has what you need to know.
AI crimes provoke legal questions
A question of criminal liability has been raised after some companies reported AI models carrying out concerning behavior. The Free Press contributor and Yale Law School professor Jed Rubenfeld shares his thoughts. The Free Press is a Paramount publication.
Science
More Science
Humpback whale seen grieving dead calf in rare footage
The footage shows a female humpback whale staying close to the dead calf as it lies motionless on the seafloor, touching it with its head and fin.
Remains of ancient warhorse given honorific burial discovered in Egypt
Archaeologists say they've discovered the remains of a likely ancient Egyptian warhorse given an honorific burial more than 3,000 years ago.
Anthropic CEO says "exponential" growth of AI is a "warning sign"
Artificial intelligence technology is developing at an "exponential" rate, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei told CBS News, calling the situation a "warning sign" for the industry that requires serious safeguards.
First-ever adult T. rex trackway found in North Dakota
Paleontologists have identified the first known trackway made by a full-grown Tyrannosaurus rex, and the discovery was made in the North Dakota badlands.
Ig Nobel prizes go to scientists studying cockroach milk, nose-blowing, more
Ten research teams were honored at a satirical science awards ceremony that was hosted outside the U.S. for the first time due to travel concerns. A study of cockroach milk was among the winners.
Crime
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Crime
Philly police probing possible serial murders
Philadelphia police, along with the FBI, are investigating possible serial murders in the city. This comes after investigators discovered evidence tied to at least five missing women in a home in the city's Olney neighborhood. CBS Philadelphia reporter Joe Holden has the latest.
Evidence discovered in "house of horrors"
Investigators are looking into photo and video evidence that appears to show missing women dead inside a so-called "house of horrors" in Philadelphia. CBS News' Jericka Duncan has more on the case.
Coast Guard concerned about AI crime
The U.S. is investigating cyberattacks on two energy tankers to determine whether Iran was involved. CBS News' Nicole Sganga has what you need to know.
AI crimes provoke legal questions
A question of criminal liability has been raised after some companies reported AI models carrying out concerning behavior. The Free Press contributor and Yale Law School professor Jed Rubenfeld shares his thoughts. The Free Press is a Paramount publication.
I slept in the room where Lizzie Borden's stepmom was killed. Here's what I found.
In 2019, a brave team of "48 Hours producers" traveled to Fall River, Massachusetts, to spend the night in the house where Andrew and Abby Borden were found brutally murdered.
Space
More Space
NASA spacecraft discovers moon crater bigger than Roman Colosseum
Scientists have discovered a crater on the moon that's bigger than the Roman Colosseum, the result of a powerful impact two years ago.
NASA launches its Roman Space Telescope to explore the hidden universe
NASA's Roman Space Telescope launched shortly after daybreak from Kennedy Space Center and blazed toward an observation point 1 million miles away.
Roman Space Telescope promises 300-megapixel views of the cosmos
The $4.3 billion telescope is expected to discover tens of thousands of exoplanets while probing the nature of mysterious dark matter and energy.
First on CBS
Trump to honor Artemis II crew with nation's top space medal
President Trump plans to award the Congressional Space Medal of Honor to the crew of NASA's Artemis II mission in a ceremony Aug. 28.
NASA's Swift telescope will plunge toward Earth after rescue mission called off
The mission to save NASA's sinking space telescope has been called off, dooming the telescope to a fiery reentry later this year.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Dolly Parton: An extraordinary life in pictures
Dolly Parton, the country music legend who became a feminist icon, has died at the age of 80. Here is a look back at her life in pictures.
Investigating the death of designer Sylvie Cachay
Sylvie Cachay was found dead in an overflowing bathtub at the exclusive Soho House in New York City on Dec. 9, 2010. A water leak at the hotel gave away a timeline that may have revealed her killer.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Photos show celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Raisman on advocating for her health
Aly Raisman told Norah O'Donnell on "Healthful" her struggle to schedule an appointment with a specialist to address her painful periods. She said she's seen three doctors, who have all cleared her to see a specialist, but she's now on a yearlong waiting list to schedule an appointment.
Philly police probing possible serial murders
Philadelphia police, along with the FBI, are investigating possible serial murders in the city. This comes after investigators discovered evidence tied to at least five missing women in a home in the city's Olney neighborhood. CBS Philadelphia reporter Joe Holden has the latest.
Officials: Iran downed 2 unmanned U.S. aircraft
CBS News has learned that Iranian forces took down at least two American MQ-1 unmanned aircraft in recent days, according to U.S. officials familiar with the incident. CBS News' James LaPorta has more.
From the archives: Bob Mackie on being dressmaker to the stars
Nine-time Emmy-winning costume designer Bob Mackie, who clothed such musical and comedic talents as Cher, Carol Burnett, Barbra Streisand and Liza Minnelli, died on Sept. 14, 2026 at age 87. In this Sept. 21, 2003 "Sunday Morning" profile, Mackie talked with correspondent Rita Braver about how a star-struck kid growing up outside Hollywood became a dressmaker to the stars, and what fascinates him about divas. He also talked about the tragic death of his son, Robin, from AIDS.
Tiny English village votes to leave the U.K.
Piddington, a tiny English village of 350 people have voted overwhelmingly —285 to 26 — to "leave" the United Kingdom in a symbolic referendum over plans to house around 1,250 male asylum seekers at a military site less than a mile away. The vote had no legal force, but drew a 92% turnout.