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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.
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Ross Fire still burning, with over 90,000 acres scorched
The wildfire, which has torn through Palo Pinto and Jack counties, has forced evacuations, closed roads and disrupted schools.
The Social Security Administration overpaid her. Now she owes $35,000.
The agency told a woman that she has 30 days to pay them back. Otherwise, it would cut her benefits by 50% while it collects what it overpaid.
Chocolate eyeball candy sold at Marshalls, TJ Maxx recalled
The recalled candy, sold under the brand "Crystal Temptations," was distributed in 13 states.
U.S. layoffs in August fell to their lowest level in 4 years
Job cuts around the U.S. have declined this year even amid signs that hiring is weakening.
Hegseth favors Sean Parnell for Army secretary, sources say
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has told people close to him that Sean Parnell would be his top choice for secretary of the Army, several senior officials told CBS News.
MoneyWatch
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The Social Security Administration overpaid her. Now she owes $35,000.
The agency told a woman that she has 30 days to pay them back. Otherwise, it would cut her benefits by 50% while it collects what it overpaid.
Chocolate eyeball candy sold at Marshalls, TJ Maxx recalled
The recalled candy, sold under the brand "Crystal Temptations," was distributed in 13 states.
U.S. layoffs in August fell to their lowest level in 4 years
Job cuts around the U.S. have declined this year even amid signs that hiring is weakening.
Good Good Golf CEO resigns after furor over Callaway ad
The top two executives at digital marketing company Good Good Golf are leaving after a controversial ad was panned as sexist.
Uber to shed 10% of workers as it moves to cut costs and streamline
CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said Uber is removing organizational layers and taking other steps to boost its efficiency.
Politics
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Hegseth favors Sean Parnell for Army secretary, sources say
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has told people close to him that Sean Parnell would be his top choice for secretary of the Army, several senior officials told CBS News.
Exclusive
AI interviews rolling out for some federal government hires, sources say
The federal government will shift into using artificial intelligence in the interview process for some job applicants in the coming days, according to U.S. officials.
Mother of USS Abraham Lincoln sailor "so relieved" son has arrived in Thailand
The USS Abraham Lincoln pulled into port in Thailand for some rest and relaxation after 286 days at sea.
Leon Black defies House subpoena, sues committee over Epstein probe
Leon Black, a former close associate of Jeffrey Epstein, was subpoenaed in June after he abruptly left a voluntary appearance before the House Oversight Committee.
Hillary Clinton on Gloria Steinem: "One of the architects" of women's equality
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton remembered activist Gloria Steinem as "one of the architects of the entire structure of women's equality," while encouraging young women to lift up each other.
HealthWatch
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Clancy trial highlights need to rethink postpartum care: "The duty is on the system"
Lindsay Clancy's case is resonating with moms across the U.S. — bringing into focus the spectrum of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and the lack of resources for many women.
What's true and false about infertility? We asked a fertility specialist.
Dr. Temeka Zore, a double board-certified OB-GYN and fertility specialist, joined "Healthful" for a deep dive on all things fertility, from endometriosis to PMOS (formerly known as PCOS) to egg freezing.
The market forces quietly adding thousands to patient bills
The true cost of "vertical integration": Patients directed to a higher-priced location for procedures. Or forced to buy from their insurer's wholly owned pharmacy, which may not stock the drug prescribed or provide it at the lowest price.
Trump inks deal with 9 pharmaceutical companies to lower drug costs
The White House said the agreements will reduce costs to treat Parkinson's disease, macular degeneration, glaucoma, liver disease and other illnesses.
Man with sinus infection symptoms diagnosed with heart condition
Marc Gaudisosi thought his symptoms were caused by a sinus infection. Then an urgent care told him to go to the hospital.
World
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U.S. sinks second "floating refueling station" used by alleged drug traffickers
The U.S. military intercepted and sank a vessel that was allegedly being used to support at-sea drug trafficking by the Ecuadorian criminal organization Los Choneros, officials said.
Maduro, wife seek dismissal of drug trafficking indictment on immunity grounds
Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife asked a judge to toss their drug trafficking indictment on the grounds that they have immunity as the leader and first lady of a foreign country.
Exclusive
Military personnel told last month to stop calling Iran conflict "Operation Epic Fury"
The Pentagon says "Operation Epic Fury" ended on May 5, after an Air Force email last month told service members to stop using the name for ongoing Iran operations.
Malta businessman found not guilty in car bomb killing of journalist
Daphne Caruana Galizia's killing shocked Europe, led to protests that toppled a prime minister and exposed a culture of impunity in the European Union's smallest state.
"We are the best," Chinese EV maker says ahead of push into North America
A trade deal with Canada is about to give Chinese EV makers already grabbing major market share elsewhere a foothold just over the Detroit River.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
KIND Snacks founder on his new podcast
"Shark Tank" judge and KIND Snacks founder Daniel Lubetzky joins "CBS Mornings" to discuss his new podcast, "Build or Break," where he sits down with fellow entrepreneurs and industry disruptors.
Gloria Steinem dies at 92
Gloria Steinem, a feminist icon and a pioneer in the women's liberation movement, has died at 92. CBS News' Jarred Hill looks back at her historic career.
Adria Arjona talks career, "Onslaught" role
Adria Arjona sits down with "CBS Mornings" to discuss her new movie, "Onslaught," and working with Michael B. Jordan on "The Thomas Crown Affair."
Artists sue AI-generated music company
Jason Isbell, Guy Forsyth and other musicians filed a class action lawsuit against Suno, claiming the AI platform used their music to train its model without permission. Jo Ling Kent has more.
Danielle Brooks on "If I Go Will They Miss Me"
Danielle Brooks sits down with "CBS Mornings" to talk about her new movie, "If I Go Will They Miss Me," and how being a mother and wife helped her in portraying the role.
Technology
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Exclusive
AI interviews rolling out for some federal government hires, sources say
The federal government will shift into using artificial intelligence in the interview process for some job applicants in the coming days, according to U.S. officials.
Hack exposes millions of ID scans on dark web
The FBI is investigating a recent hack that put more than 150 million U.S. and Canadian driver's license scans for sale online. Chris Krebs, former director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency joins with more.
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.
NYC's push to ban AI in public classrooms
New York City is imposing a one-year moratorium on the use of AI in public school classrooms from 2-K through eighth grade. Kelly Clancy, founder and lead organizer of Parents for AI Caution in Educational Spaces, shares her thoughts.
NYC bans AI use in some schools
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a 1-year moratorium on the use of AI in elementary and middle school classrooms on Wednesday. Danielle Giunta, first deputy chancellor of NYC public schools, joins "The Daily Report" to discuss.
Science
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Science
Vote on the fattest marmot now
Marmots, not bears, are the largest "true" hibernating mammal, UCLA marmot researchers Katie Adler and Emily Renkey say. The two share more fun facts about these cute creatures and explain how to vote for the fattest marmot.
NASA plans to launch new space telescope
NASA's new telescope could change the way we see space. With a wide-field camera that will reveal an area up to 200 times larger than the Hubble Space Telescope, and an orbit a million miles from Earth, the Nancy Grace Roman telescope is expected to find tens of thousands of unknown exoplanets.
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.
Crime
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Crime
Latest on alleged cocaine frat ring
Members of the alleged Penn State fraternity cocaine ring appeared in court Wednesday and are set to go to trial. Lana Zak reports.
Suspect in downtown Minneapolis mass shooting was facing eviction
The man suspected of killing two people and injuring six others in a mass shooting at a downtown Minneapolis apartment complex Wednesday was facing eviction after a string of incidents including assault and allegedly showing a gun to apartment management, according to court documents.
Lindsay Clancy jurors still deadlocked
Jurors in the Lindsay Clancy murder trial told Plymouth Superior Judge William Sullivan they were still deadlocked Wednesday, prompting him to read Tuey-Rodriguez instructions, a last resort pushing the jurors to reach a verdict. Caroline Polisi has more.
Lindsay Clancy jury still deadlocked
Jurors in the murder trial of Lindsay Clancy notified the judge for a second time that they remain deadlocked. Jury deliberations continue for a sixth day. CBS News' Shanelle Kaul reports.
Latest on Minneapolis mass shooting
At least two people were killed, and five others were injured in a mass shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The suspected killer is dead. CBS News' Jarred Hill has more.
Space
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NASA launches its Roman Space Telescope to explore the hidden universe
NASA's Roman Space Telescope launched shortly after daybreak from Kennedy Space Center and blazed toward an observation point 1 million miles away.
Roman Space Telescope promises 300-megapixel views of the cosmos
The $4.3 billion telescope is expected to discover tens of thousands of exoplanets while probing the nature of mysterious dark matter and energy.
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.
Latest Galleries
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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.
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.
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.
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.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Former Obama aide on midterms
Most midterm primaries have already passed, yielding data and trends that inform how general elections could go. Former Obama aide Ravi Gupta joins CBS News with more on how Democrats and Republicans are performing in the 2026 midterms so far.
"Monsters of God" creators on reptile trading
Eric Goode, the director and executive producer of HBO's "Monsters of God" and Jeremy McBride, an executive producer, sit down with "CBS Mornings" to talk about the show and what they hope audiences will learn.
Texas slammed by Edouard's aftermath
Heavy rains continued to slam Texas in the aftermath of Edouard. Jason Allen reports.
KIND Snacks founder on his new podcast
"Shark Tank" judge and KIND Snacks founder Daniel Lubetzky joins "CBS Mornings" to discuss his new podcast, "Build or Break," where he sits down with fellow entrepreneurs and industry disruptors.
Where to get the latest CBS Mornings Deals
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