Help us report! Share your health costs story and search prices
How you can help CBS News and ClearHealthCosts bring more transparency to health care prices
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.
Marine veteran held in Russia since 2022 has been released, group says
A U.S. Marine veteran from Massachusetts who has been held in Russia for more than four years on disputed charges has been released.
Are humanoid robots ready to scrub your kitchen? Not quite.
Startup companies are now starting to test their humanoid robots for home use, but experts said wider adoption will take years.
Farm linked to cyclosporaisis outbreak went years without FDA inspection
The FDA has long fallen short of legally required inspection targets, and foreign inspections fell further last year amid agency layoffs.
Flames shoot out of plane's engine after apparent bird strike
An American Airlines plane bound for North Carolina was forced to return to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, when flames erupted from its left engine due to an apparent bird strike.
Video of Arkansas trooper punching 18-year-old draws calls for investigation
Alisa Hackett, 18, was pulled over for speeding and alcohol possession when she was tackled to the ground and punched.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Are humanoid robots ready to scrub your kitchen? Not quite.
Startup companies are now starting to test their humanoid robots for home use, but experts said wider adoption will take years.
Farm linked to cyclosporaisis outbreak went years without FDA inspection
The FDA has long fallen short of legally required inspection targets, and foreign inspections fell further last year amid agency layoffs.
Powerball jackpot hits $1 billion after no one won $905 million grand prize
No winning tickets were sold for Monday night's $905 million Powerball jackpot, so the estimated grand prize for Wednesday's drawing will be at least $1 billion, Powerball says.
Court clears way for social media addiction suits against tech giants
Appeals court ruling could open the door to a flood of litigation against Google, Meta and other social media players.
Why Taylor Farms faces scrutiny over salmonella and cyclospora outbreaks
Despite a rash of foodborne illnesses in recent months, one expert said the nation's food supply is "remarkably safe." Here's what to know.
Politics
More Politics
Marine veteran held in Russia since 2022 has been released, group says
A U.S. Marine veteran from Massachusetts who has been held in Russia for more than four years on disputed charges has been released.
North Carolina GOP chooses replacement candidate for Rep. Chuck Edwards
State Rep. Jennifer Balkcom will face Jamie Ager on the ballot in November.
Wisconsin's Democratic showdown and more primary races to watch today
South Carolina Republicans will be choosing a successor for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham's seat, and Minnesota's Senate primary is another battle between moderate and progressive Democrats.
Live
U.S. and Iran close to "peace arrangement or a deal," Pakistan says
The U.S. and Iran are close to agreeing on "some sort of arrangement," Pakistan's defense minister told Bloomberg on Tuesday.
Trump secretly switched to different plane in Turkey amid Iran threat
Ahead of a flight from Turkey, President Trump secretly left Air Force One and was moved to another plane with the help of a catering truck, according to a source, as the U.S. grappled with a threat from Iran.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
Farm linked to cyclosporaisis outbreak went years without FDA inspection
The FDA has long fallen short of legally required inspection targets, and foreign inspections fell further last year amid agency layoffs.
As Medicare pays less for cataract surgery, doctors turn to moneymaking lasers
More cataract patients, wanting not only restored but improved vision, are paying extra for their doctors to use a laser when a scalpel would do.
Congo Ebola death toll tops 2,000 in fastest spreading outbreak on record
At least 2,000 people have died among the confirmed cases in Congo's Ebola outbreak that is the fastest-spreading on record, according to the latest government data.
In texts, Fauci discussed potential risks, benefits of COVID vaccine for pregnant women
Two Senate Republicans released a set of 2021 texts that show Dr. Anthony Fauci discussing how to "weigh the potential risks against the benefits" of pregnant women taking COVID-19 vaccines.
Taylor Farms recalls jalapeño products
Taylor Farms, the company linked to this summer's lettuce-related parasite outbreak, is now recalling jalapeño pepper products after new concerns about salmonella. Tom Hanson reports.
World
More World
Perseid meteor shower reaches peak viewing on Wednesday night
The Perseid meteor shower is the best viewing all year, according to NASA.
Rescuers race to find Colombia earthquake survivors as death toll rises
More than 3,000 people were reported missing after the country was struck by its strongest earthquake on record.
Zelenskyy says Russia using North Korean missiles in Ukraine
Russia and North Korea have been collaborating in the offensive against Ukraine since 2024.
Congo Ebola death toll tops 2,000 in fastest spreading outbreak on record
At least 2,000 people have died among the confirmed cases in Congo's Ebola outbreak that is the fastest-spreading on record, according to the latest government data.
Live
U.S. and Iran close to "peace arrangement or a deal," Pakistan says
The U.S. and Iran are close to agreeing on "some sort of arrangement," Pakistan's defense minister told Bloomberg on Tuesday.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Entertainment
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader takes on Broadway
Reece Weaver, whose exit from the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders on the show "America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders" left viewers shocked, exclusively announced on "CBS Mornings" that she is making her Broadway debut. She talks about the transition, why she made the decision and what it was like to start rehearsals.
Jury selection begins in Tupac Shakur trial
Nearly 30 years after the killing of rapper Tupac Shakur, jury selection is underway for the man charged in connection with the murder, Duane "Keffe D" Davis. Celebrity attorney Chris Melcher joins CBS News to discuss.
Riley Green talks upcoming album
Country music star Riley Green joins "CBS Mornings" to talk about his upcoming album, "That's Just Me," which is set for release in mid-September.
Meet Paw Patrol look-alike contest winners
The winners of a Paw Patrol look-alike contest join "CBS Mornings" ahead of the "Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie" which premieres Aug. 14.
Taylor Swift songs in White House socials
Some Taylor Swift songs were removed from several White House social media videos. CBS News contributor Caroline Polisi has more.
Technology
More Technology
Are humanoid robots ready to scrub your kitchen? Not quite.
Startup companies are now starting to test their humanoid robots for home use, but experts said wider adoption will take years.
Zuckerberg wants open source AI
Facebook co-founder and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg argues that artificial intelligence should be open source to improve accessibility. CNET reporter Katelyn Chedraoui has more on what the philosophy of open source technology means in the AI era.
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.
Behind Mark Zuckerberg's AI essay
Despite concerns about AI, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has an optimistic vision for its future, which he shared in a new essay. He also described what he thinks is the "most dangerous" AI scenario. Nick Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, breaks down Zuckerberg's essay.
Meta debuts new AI model; Sanders' regulatory push
Sen. Bernie Sanders on Monday called for more regulation of artificial intelligence, saying companies are losing control of the technology. On the same day, Meta released a new AI tool. Axios tech and policy reporter Maria Curi joins to discuss.
Science
More Science
Science
Protecting the Venus fly trap
The carnivorous Venus fly trap is native to the Carolinas, but its population is dwindling due to loss of habitat. Correspondent Seth Doane talks with botanist Julie Moore, who has spent much of her life helping to save these remarkable plants; and with Damon Waitt, director of the North Carolina Botanical Garden, who discusses the unusual traits of a species that Charles Darwin called the most interesting plant in the world. (Originally broadcast April 26, 2026.)
Genetically altered beagles offer hope for dog lovers with allergies
Matt Walker, a geneticist and the CEO of Kindred Companion Sciences, joins "CBS Mornings" with his gene-altered beagle, Bailey, to discuss creating future options for people with severe pet allergies.
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.
Bezos, DiCaprio set up massive wildlife fund
Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos have announced a $200 million fund set to protect species on the brink of extinction. Carter Evans has the story.
Dramatic photos show lava spewing from Fuego volcano in Guatemala
Guatemalan officials on Monday began evacuating two villages near the Fuego volcano due to the ongoing eruption.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
The Sentencing of the Gilgo Beach Serial Killer
After decades of waiting, the victims of Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann finally faced him in a courtroom that became a space for grief, rage, and release. In this episode, we focus on the emotional heart of the sentencing — from raw statements to the quiet devastation of children who grew up without their mothers — and what it meant to finally say these words, face-to-face.
Lindsay Clancy's psychiatrist back on stand
Lindsay Clancy's psychiatrist, Dr. Jennifer Tufts, is back on the stand Monday as the Massachusetts murder trial enters its third week. CBS News' Katrina Kaufman has more.
Man who allegedly arranged Tupac Shakur's 1996 killing is on trial in Las Vegas
The man who prosecutors say orchestrated the 1996 killing of rap icon Tupac Shakur, Duane "Keffe D" Davis, is on trial almost 30 years after the drive-by shooting in Las Vegas.
2 killed in New York Harbor boat capsize
The captain of a boat that overturned in New York Harbor was charged with reckless endangerment. Twelve people were saved, but a mother and her 5-month-old daughter died. Michael George reports.
Family of murdered photographer wonders if his killer acted alone
Joe Shymanski, a, well-known Washington D.C. photographer, was murdered and dismembered in 2023. His ex-wife's former boyfriend, Brandon Holbrook, was convicted in the case. Shymanski's family still wonders if anyone else was involved.
Space
More Space
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.
Russian Soyuz brings three home after 8 months at space station
The Soyuz MS-28 landing in Kazakhstan brought a 241-day stay in space to a successful conclusion.
SpaceX's Super Heavy-Starship blasts off on 13th test flight
An upgraded version of the world's most powerful rocket is key to landing NASA astronauts on the moon in the agency's Artemis program.
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
Inside D4vd's Preliminary Hearing in Murder Case
A preliminary hearing offers the clearest look yet at the case against singer-songwriter D4vd, who is charged with the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. "48 Hours" correspondent Anne-Marie Green is joined by Los Angeles Times investigative crime writer Richard Winton to unpack the latest courtroom developments, the prosecution's strategy, the defense's response, and the evidence that could determine whether the case advances to trial.
Disturbing New Allegations Against D4vd
On April 29, prosecutors released a brief outlining their case against singer-songwriter D4vd, who has been charged in the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. On this episode of "Case By Case," we examine the state's timeline of events, including the allegation that D4vd stabbed Celeste and went to great lengths to cover up the crime. Plus, an update on Nick Reiner who appeared in the same court just hours before D4vd. "48 Hours" correspondent Erin Moriarty and Los Angeles Times crime writer Richard Winton dig into the new details on both stories.
The Au Pair Affair: Banfield Sentenced to Life
On Friday, June 5, Brendan Banfield was sentenced to life in prison without parole for orchestrating an elaborate plot to murder his wife, Christine Banfield, while carrying on an affair with the family's au pair, Juliana Peres Magalhães. The scheme involved luring an unsuspecting man, Joseph Ryan, to the Banfield home and attempting to frame him for the crime. "48 Hours" correspondent Anne-Marie Green and "48 Hours" producer Michelle Sigona share the most passionate moments from victim impact statements. You'll also hear from Brendan Banfield in court as he maintained his innocence.
The Sentencing of the Gilgo Beach Serial Killer
After decades of waiting, the victims of Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann finally faced him in a courtroom that became a space for grief, rage, and release. In this episode, we focus on the emotional heart of the sentencing — from raw statements to the quiet devastation of children who grew up without their mothers — and what it meant to finally say these words, face-to-face.
D4vd Charged with Murder
Following the discovery of Celeste Rivas Hernandez's remains in a vehicle registered to D4vd last fall, what were the key developments that led to charges this week? On this episode of "Case by Case," we examine all of the new details coming out of the case against singer-songwriter David Anthony Burke, who professionally goes by D4vd. "48 Hours" correspondent Natalie Morales and CBS News chief correspondent Matt Gutman break down what we know so far about Celeste's death and the alleged abusive relationship she had with the singer.