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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.
Treasury's Bessent says Trump Accounts could be "a rainy day fund"
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the benefits of Trump Accounts and addressed affordability concerns in an interview with CBS News.
Gerber recalls some arrowroot biscuits over potential plastic, paper pieces
The recall affects several batches of the 5.5-ounce Gerber Arrowroot Biscuits, the FDA said.
Bessent defends Powell probe: "Independence does not mean no accountability"
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent tells CBS News that Federal Reserve officials must be "beyond reproach" in communicating with the public.
Senate Democrats release demands as clock ticks toward partial government shutdown
Senate Democrats released their list of demands to reform immigration enforcement and fund the government Wednesday, with little time to avert a partial government shutdown.
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.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Treasury's Bessent says Trump Accounts could be "a rainy day fund"
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the benefits of Trump Accounts and addressed affordability concerns in an interview with CBS News.
Bessent defends Powell probe: "Independence does not mean no accountability"
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent tells CBS News that Federal Reserve officials must be "beyond reproach" in communicating with the public.
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.
Politics
More Politics
Bessent defends Powell probe: "Independence does not mean no accountability"
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent tells CBS News that Federal Reserve officials must be "beyond reproach" in communicating with the public.
Senate Democrats release demands as clock ticks toward partial government shutdown
Senate Democrats released their list of demands to reform immigration enforcement and fund the government Wednesday, with little time to avert a partial government shutdown.
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.
FBI executing search order at Fulton County elections hub
FBI agents are executing a search at a warehouse that serves as Fulton County's election hub.
Trump outraged by Bill Belichick's Hall of Fame snub: "Should be overturned!"
Bill Belichick, who led the New England Patriots to six Super Bowls titles, did not receive enough votes in his first year as a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
HealthWatch
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Gerber recalls some arrowroot biscuits over potential plastic, paper pieces
The recall affects several batches of the 5.5-ounce Gerber Arrowroot Biscuits, the FDA said.
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.
World
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Small plane crash in Colombia kills all 15 passengers, including lawmaker
Authorities say a small plane has crashed in a rural area of Norte de Santander province in northeast Colombia, killing all 15 people on board.
Ancient species that survived mass extinction event found in China
The fossils offer a rare glimpse into a cataclysmic event that brought a sudden end to the greatest explosion of life in our planet's history.
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.
Entertainment
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Bruce Springsteen releases new song, "Streets of Minneapolis"
Bruce Springsteen has released a song in honor of Alex Pretti and Renee Good titled "Streets of Minneapolis."
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.
Technology
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Technology
New AI features for Gmail users
This month, Google launched a suite of new features for Gmail. Google's AI assistant, Gemini, can now filter through junk, summarize an inbox and even help users write emails. Blake Barnes, Gmail vice president of product, joins CBS News to discuss.
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.
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.
TikTok's new privacy policy is sparking a backlash. Here's what to know.
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.
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.
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
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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
Bessent makes pitch for Trump Accounts
CBS News MoneyWatch correspondent Kelly O'Grady spoke with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about the rollout of the administration's new retirement savings program: Trump Accounts. Riley Rogerson, politics and Congress reporter for NOTUS, and Eleanor Mueller, Congress reporter for Semafor, join to discuss.
Official: Agents in Alex Pretti shooting on leave
The federal agents who were involved in Saturday's fatal shooting of Alex Pretti have been put on administrative leave, according to a federal law enforcement official. Meanwhile, Democratic Congresswoman Ilhan Omar was attacked during a town hall event in Minneapolis on Tuesday night. CBS News' Ian Lee, Nicole Sganga and Ed O'Keefe have more details.
Salazar reacts to Rubio's Venezuela testimony
Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the Trump administration's actions in Venezuela at a Senate hearing on Wednesday. Republican Rep. María Salazar of Florida joins with her reaction to the testimony.
Why the Fed held interest rates steady
The Federal Reserve, as expected, left its benchmark interest rate unchanged on Wednesday. The decision to keep the rate at its current mark comes after the central bank ended 2025 with three consecutive rate cuts. CBS News business analyst Jill Schlesinger breaks down the decision.
Fetterman calls for Trump to fire Noem
Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania was one of the few members of his party to vote to confirm Kristi Noem as Department of Homeland Security secretary. Now, he's calling for President Trump to fire her after the two fatal shootings by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis. Fetterman joins "The Takeout" to share his perspective.