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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.
Inside the Congressional Record: How history gets made as D.C. sleeps
The production of the Congressional Record is one of the unseen cogs in the congressional machine, arriving with little fanfare like a newspaper on the Capitol's doorstep every day.
CBS News Radio signing off after nearly 100 years: "An American institution"
After nearly a century on the air, CBS News Radio is signing off, with the final reports airing on Friday, May 22.
Stephen Colbert says farewell to "The Late Show" in heartfelt finale
Stephen Colbert hosted "The Late Show" for the final time Thursday night as the franchise came to an end after 33 years.
GOP senators press Blanche on "anti-weaponization fund" in tense meeting
Some Republican senators openly expressed their concerns about the Justice Department's new "anti-weaponization fund" in a tense meeting Thursday with Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Several people watched San Diego attack live on video calls, recordings show
At least three people watched a livestream as gunmen filmed their deadly attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego on Monday. One viewer urged another to alert law enforcement, but it is not clear if anyone did.
MoneyWatch
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Why Google's Gemini Spark AI agent could be a game changer
AI tools that autonomously perform tasks for users mark a major step forward from chatbots, according to tech experts.
Consumers are still spending, but cracks are starting to show
Shoppers continue to open their pocketbooks, boosting retailers like Walmart, even as inflation jumps to its highest level in three years.
Summer air travel could be rough. Here's how travelers can prepare.
A new report finds that on-time flight arrivals are at their worst level since 2014, with fuel costs and weather adding to summer travel risks.
Record 274 climbers scale Nepal's side of Mount Everest in single day
A record 274 climbers scaled the Nepal side of Mount Everest in a single day, officials said. They took advantage of clear weather.
World Cup expected to generate more in sports bets than the Super Bowl
Americans are expected to wager more than $3 billion amid the expansion of legalized sports betting in the U.S.
Politics
More Politics
Primary fight in key California district highlights questions about Democrats' future
The latest fight over the Democratic Party's direction is playing out in a competitive California House primary, as progressives accuse party leaders of trying to muscle a moderate past a Latino challenger in a heavily Hispanic district.
Inside the Congressional Record: How history gets made as D.C. sleeps
The production of the Congressional Record is one of the unseen cogs in the congressional machine, arriving with little fanfare like a newspaper on the Capitol's doorstep every day.
First on CBS
New site aims to track $12.5B in air traffic control system upgrades
The Department of Transportation is rolling out a new website to track progress in the sprawling effort to modernize the nation's air traffic control system.
House GOP pulls Iran war resolution that appeared to have enough support to pass
Republicans are struggling to find the votes to dismiss legislation that would compel President Trump to withdraw from the war with Iran.
Navy's acting secretary says Taiwan arms sale put on "pause" over Iran war
The acting secretary of the U.S. Navy said Thursday that arm sales to Taiwan had been put on "pause" to ensure that the American military had sufficient munitions for its Iran operations.
HealthWatch
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Ebola treatment center in Congo set on fire as fear and anger grow
People set fire to an Ebola treatment center in a town at the heart of the outbreak in eastern Congo as fear and anger grow over a health crisis that doctors are struggling to contain.
New weight-loss drug Retatrutide in trials
A new weight-loss drug, so new it is not on the market yet, is showing promising results in trials, doing much more than what current medications can. Dr. Jon LaPook breaks it down.
U.S. steps up Ebola prevention efforts
The U.S. is stepping up efforts to prevent Ebola from entering the country through its airports, with one flight diverted to Canada on Wednesday evening. Ian Lee reports from Detroit.
U.S. doctor with Ebola feared he "wasn't going to make it" before evacuation
Dr. Peter Stafford was working with the missionary group Serge in Congo when he was infected with Ebola.
Is "fibermaxxing" good for your health?
Health and fitness influencers are pushing people to consume more fiber. Keri Glassman, Nutritious Life founder and CEO, joins with her take.
World
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NATO allies welcome Trump's turnaround on Poland troop deployment
Trump says 5,000 U.S. troops will head for Poland, a week after the White House said a planned deployment of 4,000 was being nixed.
Ebola treatment center in Congo set on fire as fear and anger grow
People set fire to an Ebola treatment center in a town at the heart of the outbreak in eastern Congo as fear and anger grow over a health crisis that doctors are struggling to contain.
2 climbers die on Everest as record-holder warns of overcrowding
At least five climbers have died during this Everest season. A U.S. and a Czech climber died on Mount Makalu earlier this month.
Body found stuffed in barrel linked to Belgrade police chief
Police found the body of a man stuffed in a barrel following a shooting in a restaurant that led to the arrest of Belgrade's police chief, prosecutors said.
Live
Rubio says Iran imposing tolls on Strait of Hormuz "not acceptable"
The Secretary of State tempered optimism for a deal to end the Iran war, calling Iran's bid to "create a tolling system" in the Strait of Hormuz "not acceptable."
Entertainment
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CBS News Radio signing off after nearly 100 years: "An American institution"
After nearly a century on the air, CBS News Radio is signing off, with the final reports airing on Friday, May 22.
Stephen Colbert says farewell to "The Late Show" in heartfelt finale
Stephen Colbert hosted "The Late Show" for the final time Thursday night as the franchise came to an end after 33 years.
All 24 "Survivor 50" castaways discuss season
Throughout the airing of "Survivor 50," castaways joined "CBS Mornings" to discuss their time on the show. In this marathon, relive the twists and turns and hear from all 24 contestants about what it was like to be a part of the 50th season.
"Survivor 50" finalists discuss strategy, how they planned to win
Aubry won the record $2 million prize for earning 8-of-11 votes in Wednesday night's finale of "Survivor 50."
"Survivor 50" players on game strategies
"Survivor" host Jeff Probst joins Gayle King and the top five contestants from "Survivor 50" after the jury crowned a winner in the legendary game.
Technology
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Technology
Ring founder on the Fire Watch feature
As thousands evacuate their homes in Southern California to flee the Sandy Fire, Ring doorbell and security cameras are helping residents and emergency crews stay informed and stay safe. Ring founder Jamie Siminoff joins CBS News to discuss the Fire Watch feature.
Stanford student on how AI impacted his class
A recent opinion piece in The New York Times spotlighted the impact of artificial intelligence on the 2026 graduating class at one of the world's most prestigious universities. The author, Stanford student Theo Baker, joins to discuss.
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.
Why Google's Gemini Spark AI agent could be a game changer
AI tools that autonomously perform tasks for users mark a major step forward from chatbots, according to tech experts.
Trump postponing AI executive order "because I didn't like what I was seeing"
President Trump said he doesn't want to "do anything that's going to get in the way" of leading the world on the technology.
Science
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Atlantic hurricane season is coming up. Here's what NOAA predicts.
The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is quickly approaching, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is releasing its forecast for what to expect.
2 humpback whales swam record-breaking distance, photos reveal
The pictures represent the longest-distance ever seen between two pictures of the same humpback whale, researchers said.
Live chicks hatched from artificial eggshell, biotech company says
Independent scientists say the technology, while impressive, lacks some components to be truly considered an artificial egg.
El Niño could bring "double whammy" of high tide flooding, NOAA warns
The upcoming El Niño could trigger frequent and widespread flooding in coastal areas around the United States, even when storms aren't actively taking place, scientists warn.
New dinosaur weighing as much as 9 elephants identified by scientists
The long-necked herbivore is the largest ever found in Southeast Asia, researchers said.
Crime
More Crime
Body found stuffed in barrel linked to Belgrade police chief
Police found the body of a man stuffed in a barrel following a shooting in a restaurant that led to the arrest of Belgrade's police chief, prosecutors said.
Several people watched San Diego attack live on video calls, recordings show
At least three people watched a livestream as gunmen filmed their deadly attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego on Monday. One viewer urged another to alert law enforcement, but it is not clear if anyone did.
Epstein island trespasser says he was hog-tied, thrown into "dungeon"
Little St. James in the Virgin Islands has attracted seekers lured by tales of Jeffrey Epstein's private island.
Tennessee stops execution after failing to find vein for lethal drugs
Tennessee called off the planned execution of Tony Carruthers on Thursday, his attorney said.
Charges dismissed for ex-official at school where 6-year-old shot teacher
A judge has dismissed all charges against a former school administrator accused of ignoring warnings about a 6-year-old with a gun.
Space
More Space
SpaceX launch of more powerful Super Heavy-Starship rocket scrubbed at last minute
The new rocket features a host of upgrades intended to improve safety and performance of the world's most powerful rocket.
SpaceX to explore "the true nature of the universe" as it plans IPO
Elon Musk's SpaceX is moving ahead with plans to go public in what some expect will be the biggest IPO ever.
SpaceX launches cargo ship to International Space Station
The International Space Station-bound SpaceX Cargo Dragon is loaded with 6,500 pounds of needed equipment, research gear and crew supplies.
NASA maps show Earth's brightest and darkest regions at night
Researchers expected to find "a gradual increase in artificial light at night," but instead saw "much more nuanced patterns," NASA said.
NASA spacecraft to fly past Mars on voyage to rare metal asteroid
NASA's Psyche spacecraft will slingshot past Mars on Friday, on its way toward a rare metal-rich asteroid.
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.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Single Gen Z women buying more homes than men
Data from the National Association of Realtors shows that 35% of single women ages 18 to 26 are buying homes compared to just 18% of single Gen Z men. However, as a whole, the age group is struggling to keep up with others when it comes to owning a home. Jessica Lautz, the deputy chief economist at the National Association of Realtors, joins "The Daily Report" to discuss.
What's stopping potential U.S.-Iran peace deal?
The Iranian government is reviewing the latest U.S. proposal to end the war. CBS News national security analyst Aaron MacLean analyzes the situation.
A theater summer camp for adults
Summer Camp isn't just for kids anymore. Each year, more adults are heading back to camp for a chance to sing, dance and take a break from burnout. Gwen Baumgardner unpacks the growing trend for grown-ups.
DNC releases 2024 election autopsy
The Democratic National Committee has released the long-awaited autopsy report on its 2024 election loss. CBS News political contributor Joel Payne breaks down the results.
Judges onboarded for deportation cases
CBS News has learned that the Trump administration brought on more than 80 new federal immigration judges this week to speed up deportation cases. CBS News immigration correspondent Camilo Montoya-Galvez has the exclusive report.