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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.
Missouri deputy AG found alive days after vanishing on Wyoming hike
Missouri Deputy Attorney General Shaun Mackelprang was found alive six days after he vanished in the remote Wyoming wilderness during a backcountry hike.
ICE officer charged in Minneapolis shooting released from Texas jail, AP reports
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent charged in a Minneapolis shooting during Operation Metro Surge has been released from a Texas jail, the Associated Press reports.
Trial date set for alleged Sept. 11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed
Khalid Sheikh Mohammed is accused of developing and directing the plot to crash hijacked airliners into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001.
Small plane crash into water near remote Alaska town kills all 4 on board
A small plane carrying four people crashed into shallow waters next to a remote coastal town in Alaska on Wednesday, killing everyone on board, officials said.
NFL ends Pro Bowl after 75 years, will still honor roster at season's end
In a news release, the NFL said it plans to "elevate" Pro Bowl selections, with no replacement selections.
MoneyWatch
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Trump's oil and gas stock trades continued during Iran war, filings show
President Trump has accused oil companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil of "making too much money." He owns shares of both.
Bill Gates issues stark warning about AI's impact on American jobs
In a nearly 6,000-word essay, Gates argues that artificial intelligence poses a mounting threat to U.S. workers.
See which U.S. states are most at risk from Canadian tariffs
Canadian officials said the tariffs set to be imposed on more than 800 U.S. imports are "strategic" and designed to target some states.
Boston Scientific says a cyberattack is disrupting its global operations
Medical device maker said it is working to assess the scope of the attack and business interruption.
Meta settles social media addiction suit for up to $17.1 billion
Meta agreed to pay up to $17.1 billion to settle allegations that its social media platforms are addictive.
Politics
More Politics
Trump's oil and gas stock trades continued during Iran war, filings show
President Trump has accused oil companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil of "making too much money." He owns shares of both.
During secretive trip, CIA chief warned Russia not to attack NATO
The purpose of CIA Director John Ratcliffe's visit to Moscow this week was to warn Russia not to attack NATO member states, people familiar with the matter said, amid U.S. assessments that Russia could try to test NATO.
Pentagon upgrades awards of 3 Marines for actions after Abbey Gate attack
Five years after the attack in Afghanistan that killed 13 service members, the Pentagon upgraded the awards of three Marines who provided care in the wake of the blast.
ICE arrests of people without criminal records hit record high, new data shows
The surge in arrests comes as the White House pushes ICE to hit a target of 2,000 per day.
24 states sue to block new Postal Service rules for mail voting
The group of 24 states and the District of Columbia argues the Postal Service's new rule violates the Constitution and federal law.
HealthWatch
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FDA approves new pancreatic cancer drug that could extend patients' lives
Patients taking the first-of-a-kind pill, called daraxonrasib, lived for a median of 13.2 months compared with 6.7 months for chemotherapy recipients, studies showed.
Secrets of the gut microbiome and how it impacts our long-term brain health
Dr. Laura Cox, an assistant professor at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, explains how our dietary patterns play a significant role in our gut and long-term brain health.
Pennsylvania records first 2 measles deaths in 35 years
Pennsylvania has recorded its first two deaths connected to measles in 35 years.
At least 1 in 4 ex-NFL players who died from 2016 to 2021 had CTE, study finds
The rate is much higher than is seen in the general population. CTE is a brain disease linked to repeated blows to the head.
Trump and Kennedy's health industry deals are at risk of vanishing
The agreements, covering issues like drug pricing, reducing the use of synthetic food dyes, and cutting back on insurance prior authorization rules, were announced with fanfare and touted as victories.
World
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Ancient gold treasures stolen from museum in "super-fast" raid
The treasure was discovered in 1963 by archaeologist Jose Maria Soler in a vessel sunk in a dried-out riverbed in Villena.
Suspect arrested for allegedly killing influencer on livestream
Cesar Gastelum was dressed as a food delivery worker and taking part in a social media challenge along with two friends when he was shot dead.
More than 800 missing, including 65 Americans, as Nepal flood deaths mount
More than 1,000 people, including many Americans, are still missing along the Nepal-China border after deadly floods and mudflows likely triggered by a glacial collapse.
Yayoi Kusama, groundbreaking artist known for her signature polka dots, dies at 97
The paintings, sculptures and museum installations of Yayoi Kusama, one of Japan's most respected contemporary artists, were widely exhibited around the world.
During secretive trip, CIA chief warned Russia not to attack NATO
The purpose of CIA Director John Ratcliffe's visit to Moscow this week was to warn Russia not to attack NATO member states, people familiar with the matter said, amid U.S. assessments that Russia could try to test NATO.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Tributes to Dolly Parton pour in
Fans worldwide are sharing their love for the beloved singer and humanitarian Dolly Parton after her death at age 80. CBS News' Skyler Henry reports from Dollywood.
Highlighting Dolly Parton's signature style
Dolly Parton was known for her unique style, and many remember her as a fashion trailblazer despite the early pushback she received. Adriana Diaz breaks down her impact on fashion.
Worldwide tributes pour in for Dolly Parton
Tributes continue to pour in for Dolly Parton after her death at 80. Skyler Henry spoke with Eugene Naughton, president of The Dollywood Company, who said Parton had "never forgotten how to serve others."
Extended interview: Alex Warren
Singer-songwriter Alex Warren sits down with Anthony Mason to talk about his sophomore album, WILDCHILD, the loss of his parents and how songs have been the soundtrack to his emotions.
"Rocky Horror" stars on film turning 10 (1985)
On Halloween 1985, Barry Bostwick and Richard O'Brien, stars of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," joined CBS News to mark 10 years since the cult classic's release. Tim Curry, who portrayed the film's antagonist, Dr. Frank-N-Furter, died Tuesday at the age of 80.
Technology
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Technology
Bill Gates' dire warning about AI
Microsoft founder and computer pioneer Bill Gates changed the world forever with his technological innovation. Now, Gates is warning that the development of artificial intelligence without strong oversight and regulation could threaten society as we know it. MIT professor Max Tegmark shares his concerns.
Meta settles social media addiction suit
A series of lawsuits accused tech giant Meta of purposefully designing social media apps to entice users and cause social media addiction. Meta will pay out $17 billion in a landmark settlement. CBS News' Jarred Hill 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.
Why does the Meta settlement matter?
Meta's multi-billion dollar settlement with 47 states over social media addiction could result in some major changes to social media rules, especially for children. Nicholas Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, joins with more.
Unpacking Nvidia's latest earnings report
Artificial intelligence juggernaut Nvidia blew past Wall Street's expectations for its latest quarterly earnings report, more than doubling its profits and revenue. Wall Street Journal tech reporter Robbie Whelan joins CBS News to discuss.
Science
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Invasive Joro spiders are "slowly spreading." Here's what to do if you see one.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park told visitors Tuesday that invasive Joro spiders "may be hanging in a web near you."
A summer of extremes: Weathering a hotter world
July was the hottest month ever in the Lower 48 States – another escalation of our world into a hotter, more dangerous planet, where extreme weather events – such as heat waves, wildfires and hurricanes – will become more common and more extreme.
A summer of extremes: Weathering a hotter world
July was the hottest month ever in the Lower 48 States, breaking a record last set during the Dust Bowl – just another step in the escalation of our world into a hotter, more dangerous planet. Correspondent Jonathan Vigliotti talks with climate journalist Jeff Goodell and atmospheric scientist Maria Molina about how changes in Earth's climate are increasing the likelihood that extreme weather events – such as heat waves, wildfires and hurricanes – will become more common and more extreme.
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.
Crime
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Crime
Clancy closing arguments begin today
Lindsay Clancy's murder trial will begin wrapping up soon after today's closing arguments. CBS News legal contributor Rebecca Roiphe shares her thoughts on the final day of witness testimony.
Ancient gold treasures stolen from museum in "super-fast" raid
The treasure was discovered in 1963 by archaeologist Jose Maria Soler in a vessel sunk in a dried-out riverbed in Villena.
ICE officer charged in Minneapolis shooting released from Texas jail, AP reports
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent charged in a Minneapolis shooting during Operation Metro Surge has been released from a Texas jail, the Associated Press reports.
Crucial day in Lindsay Clancy's murder trial
The defense and prosecution in the trial against Lindsay Clancy will give their closing arguments today. CBS News' Shanelle Kaul has more on what to expect.
Suspect arrested for allegedly killing influencer on livestream
Cesar Gastelum was dressed as a food delivery worker and taking part in a social media challenge along with two friends when he was shot dead.
Space
More Space
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.
NASA images show 60-foot-wide crater on moon after SpaceX rocket booster crash
A NASA spacecraft circling the moon is providing the sharpest views yet of the crater carved by a crashing SpaceX rocket.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Tributes to Dolly Parton pour in
Fans worldwide are sharing their love for the beloved singer and humanitarian Dolly Parton after her death at age 80. CBS News' Skyler Henry reports from Dollywood.
Bill Gates' dire warning about AI
Microsoft founder and computer pioneer Bill Gates changed the world forever with his technological innovation. Now, Gates is warning that the development of artificial intelligence without strong oversight and regulation could threaten society as we know it. MIT professor Max Tegmark shares his concerns.
Clancy closing arguments begin today
Lindsay Clancy's murder trial will begin wrapping up soon after today's closing arguments. CBS News legal contributor Rebecca Roiphe shares her thoughts on the final day of witness testimony.
Desperate rescue work after Nepal floods
Search and rescue teams are looking for hundreds of people reportedly missing in Nepal after deadly floods swept through mountain towns and villages. International Federation of the Red Cross coordinator Shrinkhala Thapa speaks on emergency efforts.
Blistering heat prevents rescues in Arizona
Blistering summer temperatures are fueling wildfires and leading to heat-related deaths out West. In Phoenix, Arizona, rescue helicopters can no longer take off when extreme heat reaches a certain level. CBS News' Kris Van Cleave spoke with emergency workers about heat-related challenges.