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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.
Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase to contribute $1,000 to Trump Accounts
Two of the biggest U.S. banks said they would match a $1,000 federal contribution for employees who open a Trump Account, touting the plan as a way to save money.
Fed holds interest rates steady in first meeting of 2026
The Federal Open Market Committee kept the federal funds rate steady, following three rate cuts last year.
Federal agents involved in Pretti shooting placed on administrative leave, source says
The federal agents who were involved in Saturday's deadly shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis have been placed on administrative leave, a federal law enforcement official confirmed to CBS News.
Dozens confirmed dead as extreme cold continues to grip much of U.S.
The death toll continues to rise from a massive winter storm that left an ongoing spell of freezing weather in its wake.
Apple's Tim Cook calls for "de-escalation" after Alex Pretti's killing
Cook is joining other CEOs in weighing in on federal immigration enforcement following Pretti's killing on Jan. 24.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase to contribute $1,000 to Trump Accounts
Two of the biggest U.S. banks said they would match a $1,000 federal contribution for employees who open a Trump Account, touting the plan as a way to save money.
Fed holds interest rates steady in first meeting of 2026
The Federal Open Market Committee kept the federal funds rate steady, following three rate cuts last year.
Are Trump's tariffs fueling a boom in trade deals for China and India?
As Trump's unpredictable tariff tactics prompt longtime U.S. trade partners to find alternatives, India and China seem happy to step in and get deals done.
Apple's Tim Cook calls for "de-escalation" after Alex Pretti's killing
Cook is joining other CEOs in weighing in on federal immigration enforcement following Pretti's killing on Jan. 24.
What TikTok wants to know about you now that it's in U.S. hands
Some TikTok users are raising questions about the app's new terms and conditions after the social media platform's split from its China-based parent.
Politics
More Politics
Federal agents involved in Pretti shooting placed on administrative leave, source says
The federal agents who were involved in Saturday's deadly shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis have been placed on administrative leave, a federal law enforcement official confirmed to CBS News.
9 anti-ICE protesters arrested at Sen. Collins' Portland office
Police arrested nine people who were protesting against ICE at Sen. Susan Collins' Portland, Maine office.
Rubio: US doesn't expect to take further military action in Venezuela "at any time"
Secretary of State Marco Rubio testified before Congress about Nicolás Maduro's capture and the future of Venezuela, and also fielded questions about Iran and Greenland.
Former law enforcement trainer sees "unanswered questions" in Alex Pretti's shooting
A former federal law enforcement trainer says the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers raises serious concerns about their tactical decision-making and use of force.
DOJ says it will finish releasing Epstein files soon, but doesn't offer timeline
Top Justice Department officials said Tuesday they expect to finish reviewing and publishing files on the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein soon, but cannot provide a specific timeline.
HealthWatch
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South Carolina measles outbreak now larger than Texas' in 2025, new data shows
South Carolina's measles outbreak has grown to include 789 cases. A West Texas outbreak last year sickened 762 people.
Trump policies at odds with emerging understanding of COVID's long-term harm
Studies offer insights into the health risks and burdens faced by people who have had COVID infections. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has narrowed COVID vaccine recommendations and cut research.
Pediatrics group releases vaccine recommendations, breaks with CDC
The AAP is recommending immunization against 18 diseases. Earlier this month, the CDC reduced its recommendations for childhood vaccines to 11 diseases.
Academy of Pediatrics vaccine reccomendations
The American Academy of Pediatrics released its own recommendations for childhood vaccinations Monday. The list differs significantly from the reduced vaccine schedule released earlier this month by the CDC. Dr. Amanda Kravitz, pediatrician at Weill Cornell in New York City, joins CBS News to discuss.
Winter storm brings warnings about heart attack risk of shoveling snow
Cardiologists say shoveling snow can increase a person's risk of experiencing a heart attack.
World
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Analysts say Starlink may have guided Russian drones into a Ukrainian train
As Ukraine accuses Russia of terrorism with a deadly strike on a train, some defense analysts believe Elon Musk's Starlink may have guided the killer drones.
Colombian security forces kill 5 members of powerful cocaine cartel
President Donald Trump is set to host Gustavo Petro at the White House for talks on combatting drug trafficking from Colombia, the world's top cocaine producer.
Are Trump's tariffs fueling a boom in trade deals for China and India?
As Trump's unpredictable tariff tactics prompt longtime U.S. trade partners to find alternatives, India and China seem happy to step in and get deals done.
Australia kills wild dogs linked to death of woman, sparking backlash
Australian authorities said six wild dogs were put down after 19-year-old backpacker Piper James's body was found at a beach on the island of K'gari.
Trump warns Iran to make a nuclear deal, threatening new U.S. attack
Suggesting Iran could suffer the same fate as Venezuela, Trump warns Tehran to negotiate a new nuclear agreement, or face "major destruction."
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Peyton List on new season of "School Spirits"
Peyton List, who stars in the series "School Spirits" talks to "CBS Mornings" about the show's third season, her desire for her character to get closure and performing in off-Broadway's "Heathers The Musical."
Rosé opens up about success, self-doubt
Singer Rosé is the first K-pop star to have a song nominated in the Grammy's main categories, including record of the year and song of the year. She spoke to "CBS Mornings" about why she's still coming to terms with her success.
Natalia Lafourcade reflects on music career
Natalia Lafourcade is the most awarded woman in Latin Grammy history with 20 awards. This year, she's up for best Latin pop album at the Grammys, which would be her fifth Grammy if she wins. Lafourcade spoke to Anthony Mason about her music journey and rise to fame.
Ye, formerly Kanye West, reveals brain injury, apologizes for antisemitic remarks
In a full-page ad in the Wall Street Journal, Ye, the artist formerly known as Kanye West, revealed that the right frontal lobe of his brain was injured in a car accident 25 years ago.
Sundance Film Festival leaving Park City, Utah
After more than 40 years, the Sundance Film Festival is leaving its longtime host of Park City, Utah, and heading to Boulder, Colorado. Sarah Horbacewicz reports.
Technology
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Analysts say Starlink may have guided Russian drones into a Ukrainian train
As Ukraine accuses Russia of terrorism with a deadly strike on a train, some defense analysts believe Elon Musk's Starlink may have guided the killer drones.
What TikTok wants to know about you now that it's in U.S. hands
Some TikTok users are raising questions about the app's new terms and conditions after the social media platform's split from its China-based parent.
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.
Newsom launches probe into TikTok
The new American version of TikTok is under scrutiny as some users claim the app is suppressing anti-ICE or anti-Trump content. Now, California Gov. Gavin Newsom is launching an investigation into the complaints. CBS News MoneyWatch correspondent Kelly O'Grady reports.
Social media addiction case begins
A jury selection began on Tuesday in a landmark trial over alleged social media addiction. TikTok reached a late-night agreement Monday to settle the case. Stuart Benjamin, a professor at Duke Law School, breaks it down.
Science
More Science
Mysterious dark matter seen in new map of distant galaxies
Dark matter doesn't absorb or give off light so scientists can't study it directly. But they can observe how its gravity warps and bends the star stuff around it.
Cow develops technique to scratch herself
"CBS Saturday Morning" learns more about Veronika, the clever cow who figured out multiple ways to scratch herself with a broom. It was the first time a cow was seen using a tool.
Almanac: January 18
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
Fossils found at Dinosaur National Monument, first excavation in 100 years
The Dinosaur National Monument, which is located on the border between Colorado and Utah, was last excavated in 1924.
Dogs can learn by eavesdropping: study
Have you ever wondered if your dog is eavesdropping on you? A new study published in the Journal of Science found that some dogs are not only listening, but are also learning words. Lead scientist Dr. Shany Dror joins CBS News to discuss.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
Details on man who charged at Rep. Omar
More details are emerging about 55-year-old Anthony Kazmierczak, the man detained after charging at Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar during a town hall meeting on Tuesday. CBS News' Ian Lee reports.
Colombian security forces kill 5 members of powerful cocaine cartel
President Donald Trump is set to host Gustavo Petro at the White House for talks on combatting drug trafficking from Colombia, the world's top cocaine producer.
Man to be sentenced for Iranian's murder plot
CBS News contributor Masih Alinejad is expected in court to face the man convicted of plotting to kill her. CBS News' Katrina Kaufman reports.
New details in shooting of Indiana judge
Authorities say the shooting of an Indiana judge and his wife in their home was a gang attack and a planned assassination attempt. Five people were arrested last week and charged in the shooting. Jericka Duncan reports.
Government report on Alex Pretti shooting
A U.S. Customs and Border Protection report shared with Congress does not mention Alex Pretti reaching for his firearm before he was killed, as alleged by Trump administration officials. CBS News' Matt Gutman reports.
Space
More Space
Mysterious dark matter seen in new map of distant galaxies
Dark matter doesn't absorb or give off light so scientists can't study it directly. But they can observe how its gravity warps and bends the star stuff around it.
More on Virgin Galactic all-female space crew
Virgin Galactic is sending an all-female research team to space. Kellie Gerardi, who is leading the crew, joins "CBS News 24/7 Mornings" to discuss the goals of the mission.
NASA's Artemis II mission clears big hurdle
Inch by inch, NASA's Artemis II moon rocket lumbered along its four-mile commute from the Vehicle Assembly Building to launch pad 39-B. Mark Strassmann is at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida with more.
NASA hauls Artemis II moon rocket to launch pad for February flight
Four Artemis II astronauts plan to fly around the moon and back next month, traveling farther from Earth than any humans before them.
NASA begins Artemis II rollout to launchpad
NASA is beginning its rollout of its Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft as preparations for the Artemis II mission enter their final stage.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2025
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
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
No change to interest rates, Fed announces
The Federal Reserve announced Wednesday that interest rates would remain unchanged, holding steady in its current range of 3.5% to 3.75%. CBS News business analyst Jill Schlesinger has more.
Breaking down the NTSB findings on D.C. crash
Greg Feith, a former NTSB air safety investigator, joins CBS News to discuss the NTSB report that found a series of "systemic failures" led to the deadly midair collision of a plane and helicopter above Washington, D.C., in January 2025.
Coast Guard icebreaker operation in New York
The U.S. Coast Guard is clearing paths across New York City's harbor as extreme cold temperatures continue to grip the area following last weekend's winter storm. CBS News correspondent Tom Hanson has more from New York and meteorologist Jessica Burch has a look at the forecast.
Murphy presses Rubio on Venezuela timeline
Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy pressed Secretary of State Marco Rubio about a timeline for Venezuela's transition from an autocratic to a democratic regime. Rubio also testified at the Senate hearing that the only U.S. military presence in Venezuela will be the Marines providing security at the embassy.
Rubio grilled on Venezuela operation
State Secretary Marco Rubio is facing questions from members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee regarding the U.S. operation in Venezuela to capture Nicolás Maduro. CBS News' Olivia Gazis reports.