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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.
Walmart tomato soup kits recalled over Listeria risk, FDA says
The 14oz soup kits were distributed at Walmart stores in 29 states between June 30 and July 7, according to the FDA.
Does Mangione's guilty plea in federal case jeopardize state murder trial?
Luigi Mangione pleaded guilty to two federal counts on Friday. His state trial is currently scheduled to begin on Sept. 8.
First on CBS
Justice Department expands military's power to detain migrants near border
The Justice Department issued a legal opinion giving the U.S. military broader powers to detain migrants near certain areas along the southern border.
Book excerpt: Modesty on the line in "The Summer of Death"
Geoff Williams' account of the deadly heat wave of 1936 includes one Kentucky city's efforts to arrest young women whose warm-weather attire was considered too revealing.
Luigi Mangione pleads guilty in federal case, admits shooting Brian Thompson
Luigi Mangione entered a guilty plea in his federal case at a court appearance in Manhattan Friday morning.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Walmart tomato soup kits recalled over Listeria risk, FDA says
The 14oz soup kits were distributed at Walmart stores in 29 states between June 30 and July 7, according to the FDA.
See how much renters pay for a 2-bedroom home in 50 U.S. cities
Nearly half of renters spend more than 30% of their income on housing. Here's what it costs to rent a two-bedroom home in 50 U.S. cities.
AI is driving up consumer prices. That won't stop anytime soon.
Surging AI investment is pushing up the cost of smartphones and other gadgets, according to analysts. Here's why.
Record-breaking heat takes mounting toll on the U.S. economy
Heat waves are dealing a financial blow to businesses and creating hazardous conditions for workers, according to climate experts.
Can taking weight-loss drugs help you get hired? Yes, if you're a woman.
Going on GLP-1 drugs significantly boosted unemployed women's chances of finding a job, according to a Harvard economist.
Politics
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First on CBS
Inside "the Pool": Fugitive arrested in alleged cross-border car trade scheme
Along the Texas-Mexico border, prosecutors say a group of businessmen found a way to monopolize the trade of used cars — a scheme called "the Pool." This week, authorities say they caught one alleged member.
First on CBS
Justice Department expands military's power to detain migrants near border
The Justice Department issued a legal opinion giving the U.S. military broader powers to detain migrants near certain areas along the southern border.
Feds charge woman for allegedly vandalizing World War II Memorial in D.C.
The top federal prosecutor in Washington, D.C., said a woman has been arrested and faces two felony charges related to vandalism of the World War II Memorial.
Trump asks Supreme Court to intervene in White House ballroom legal fight
The Trump administration asked the Supreme Court to intervene in the legal battle over President Trump's White House ballroom.
USS Washington aircraft carrier heads to Middle East to replace USS Lincoln
The USS George Washington aircraft carrier departed Vietnam last week and is headed to the Middle East to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln, according to a U.S. official.
HealthWatch
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My husband was kicked out of hospice. Here's what I learned.
Some seriously ill patients improve on hospice. About 1 in 16 patients enrolled in hospice care lose eligibility as a result. Here's how to get appropriate care.
Texas steps into surrogate fight with parents
California parents wanted to end a surrogate pregnancy when doctors diagnosed the baby with a severe heart defect at 20 weeks. The surrogate refused and went to Texas, where the state has now stepped in. The baby was born on Wednesday. Jason Allen reports.
Whole Foods recalls some jalapeño products over salmonella risk
Certain salsas, guacamole, pico de gallo and prepared jalapeño products at Whole Foods are among the products recalled over possible salmonella risk.
Maps and charts show record number of measles cases in U.S. this year
CBS News has been tracking a record number of measles cases and outbreaks around the country. The majority of cases are among those who haven't been vaccinated.
Norah O'Donnell: I take testosterone. Here's why.
Norah O'Donnell sat down with her own doctor, Rachel Rubin, to tackle the important topic of menopause: How your body changes, why women may be needlessly suffering, and what you can actually do about it.
World
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Warship that sank in 1908 found off U.K.: "Undisturbed for 118 years"
The Royal Navy and shipwreck hunters have been searching in vain for the remains of HMS Tiger for over a century.
French teen social media ban struck down by top constitutional authority
France's social media ban, which was due to take effect on Sept. 1, would have barred younger users from networks such as TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram.
Count Binface wins hearts, if not the election, in bid to defeat Trump ally
Count Binface, a satirical candidate who's become a mainstay in recent U.K. elections, achieved his greatest success yet.
Paintings worth $10 million that were stolen in 3-minute heist are recovered
The recovered works are valued at more than $10 million.
Dad of USS Lincoln sailor worries about crew as deployment stretches on
The USS Abraham Lincoln has been at sea for nine months, and sailors have maintained a grueling pace amid the war in Iran.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
"Paw Patrol" cast previews movie
Natalie Morales speaks to some of the stars behind the new film, "Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie." They explain what they love about the franchise and what they hope the audience takes away from the movie.
Becky G gives behind-the-scenes look
"CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King went inside a rehearsal with singer Becky G as she gives fans a sneak peek at a new single before her upcoming album's release.
Recipe: Amish Peanut Butter Pie
Lovina Hershberger Zook, who left the Amish faith, today shares recipes of the Amish with her more than six million followers on social media.
"CBS Sunday Morning" launches new series of live events at the 92nd Street Y in NYC, debuting with Sylvester Stallone
America's #1 Sunday morning news program announces a new collaboration beginning Sept. 28 to bring conversations with the biggest newsmakers in the arts, politics and culture to the stage, and streamed online.
Exclusive
Becky G reflects on advocacy in new music, rise to fame
Becky G spoke exclusively with "CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King about her rise to fame, being the breadwinner of the family at a young age and her new music.
Technology
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French teen social media ban struck down by top constitutional authority
France's social media ban, which was due to take effect on Sept. 1, would have barred younger users from networks such as TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram.
Using AI in your romantic relationships
AI is making its way into people's love lives - some say it has helped to improve their conversations while others have used it to end a relationship. Dr. Sue Varma discusses how to use AI properly, set boundaries and identify warning signs of becoming too emotionally dependent.
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.
Flock CEO on misuse concerns
Flock CEO Garrett Langley sat down with CBS News' Anna Schecter and discussed allegations of the technology's misuse by law enforcement.
Schools curb technology use in classroom
As students across the country head back to the classroom, some schools, educators and parents are rethinking how much they utilize technology and screen time. Nicole Valdes has more.
Science
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Science
Views of the total solar eclipse in Europe
A total solar eclipse was visible in parts of Europe for the first time since 1912. Rob Marciano reports.
Europe sees total solar eclipse
A total solar eclipse turned day into night across a slice of Europe and North America on Wednesday, and put millions in unique contact with the heavens above. Meteorologist Rob Marciano reports from Spain.
Astronomy professor on how eclipses work
Janna Levin, professor of physics and astronomy at Barnard College, joins CBS News to discuss Wednesday's total solar eclipse.
How a total solar eclipse stopped a war
Columbia University astronomy professor Dr. Janna Levin joins CBS News to discuss Wednesday's total solar eclipse, saying it's a reminder that humans share this Earth together and "we're all part of something larger."
New space object called "black hole star" discovered by astronomers
The newly discovered object looks like a star the size of our solar system, but produces 100 billion times more energy than any star.
Crime
More Crime
Does Mangione's guilty plea in federal case jeopardize state murder trial?
Luigi Mangione pleaded guilty to two federal counts on Friday. His state trial is currently scheduled to begin on Sept. 8.
Brian Thompson's family on Mangione plea news
The family of slain UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson is reacting to news that his alleged killer, Luigi Mangione, plans to plead guilty in the federal case against him. CBS News legal contributor Jessica Levinson has more.
Treating Lindsay Clancy
The focus in the Lindsay Clancy trial shifts to her mental health treatment as jurors hear testimony from her psychiatric providers, friends, and family. "48 Hours" correspondent Erin Moriarty and CBS News correspondent Shanelle Kaul break down the emotional moments in court, the competing narratives emerging at the center of the case, and the lasting questions surrounding maternal mental health.
Officials react to Luigi Mangione plea plan
United States Attorney Jamie McDonald and New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch spoke to reporters after a court hearing where Luigi Mangione revealed he plans to plead guilty in the federal case against him for the death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Katrina Kaufman and Tom Hanson have more.
Luigi Mangione's lawyer reacts after hearing
Karen Friedman Agnifilo, Luigi Mangione's attorney, spoke to reporters outside a New York City federal court, where he told a judge that he plans to plead guilty in his federal case. CBS News' Tom Hanson and Katrina Kaufman report.
Space
More Space
New space object called "black hole star" discovered by astronomers
The newly discovered object looks like a star the size of our solar system, but produces 100 billion times more energy than any star.
Stunning photos show total solar eclipse over Europe
The only total solar eclipse of 2026 crossed the Northern Hemisphere Wednesday, with a path of totality across parts of Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain. See photos and video from the best viewing locations.
Perseid meteor shower reaches peak viewing on Wednesday night
The Perseid meteor shower is the best viewing all year, according to NASA.
Most detailed images taken of sun's surface revealed
Researchers were able to peek at the sun's scorching surface with the help of the National Science Foundation's Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, located on the island of Maui in Hawaii.
SpaceX rocket booster slams into moon, creating crater that could be 16 feet deep
The impact wasn't visible to the naked eye, but photos are expected to come from a lunar satellite at a later time.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
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.
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.
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.
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.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Nigel Farage keeps his seat
Nigel Farage regained his U.K. Parliament seat, beating comedian candidate Count Binface in a farcical special election. BBC News' Joe Pike reports.
Brian Thompson's family on Mangione plea news
The family of slain UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson is reacting to news that his alleged killer, Luigi Mangione, plans to plead guilty in the federal case against him. CBS News legal contributor Jessica Levinson has more.
Treating Lindsay Clancy
The focus in the Lindsay Clancy trial shifts to her mental health treatment as jurors hear testimony from her psychiatric providers, friends, and family. "48 Hours" correspondent Erin Moriarty and CBS News correspondent Shanelle Kaul break down the emotional moments in court, the competing narratives emerging at the center of the case, and the lasting questions surrounding maternal mental health.
Tropical Storm Lala looms over Hawaii
Tropical Storm Lala could bring strong winds and heavy rain to Hawaii over the next few days. Michael Brennan, a NOAA Hurricane Center director, has more on what to expect.
Officials react to Luigi Mangione plea plan
United States Attorney Jamie McDonald and New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch spoke to reporters after a court hearing where Luigi Mangione revealed he plans to plead guilty in the federal case against him for the death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Katrina Kaufman and Tom Hanson have more.