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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.
Live
Government shutdown deadline just hours away as Senate works to pass deal
Dozens of federal agencies are set to see their funding lapse at midnight as senators work to finalize a deal on a package of spending bills.
FBI now leading investigation into fatal shooting of Alex Pretti
The FBI is now leading the investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minnesota.
Journalist Don Lemon arrested after protest at Minnesota church
Don Lemon was taken into custody by federal agents in Los Angeles, where had been covering the Grammy Awards, his attorney said.
Trump nominates Kevin Warsh as next Federal Reserve Board chair
President Trump says he is nominating Kevin Warsh to be the next chair of the Federal Reserve, filling a powerful economic policy role as the president pushes for lower interest rates.
Breaking
Prosecutors in Luigi Mangione case can't seek death penalty, judge rules
Luigi Mangione, accused of murdering UnitedHeathcare CEO Brian Thompson, will not face the death penalty if convicted on federal charges, a judge ruled Friday.
MoneyWatch
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What Kevin Warsh as new Federal Reserve chair could mean for the economy
The president is turning to a former Fed official as his nominee to replace outgoing Chair Jerome Powell.
Trump nominates Kevin Warsh as next Federal Reserve Board chair
President Trump says he is nominating Kevin Warsh to be the next chair of the Federal Reserve, filling a powerful economic policy role as the president pushes for lower interest rates.
Trump threatens Canada with 50% tariff on aircraft sold in U.S.
President Trump is threatening Canada with a 50% tariff on any aircraft sold in the U.S., the latest salvo in his trade war with America's northern neighbor as his feud with Prime Minister Mark Carney expands.
The No. 1 skill employers are looking for, according to a LinkedIn expert
Job seekers can raise their chances of landing a position by highlighting a particular kind of work experience, says LinkedIn career expert Catherine Fisher.
First Brands founder Patrick James, brother Edward indicted for fraud
The James brothers face charges of conspiracy to commit money laundering, bank fraud and wire fraud.
Politics
More Politics
Live
Government shutdown deadline just hours away as Senate works to pass deal
Dozens of federal agencies are set to see their funding lapse at midnight as senators work to finalize a deal on a package of spending bills.
What Kevin Warsh as new Federal Reserve chair could mean for the economy
The president is turning to a former Fed official as his nominee to replace outgoing Chair Jerome Powell.
Trump nominates Kevin Warsh as next Federal Reserve Board chair
President Trump says he is nominating Kevin Warsh to be the next chair of the Federal Reserve, filling a powerful economic policy role as the president pushes for lower interest rates.
Trump sues IRS and Treasury, accusing agencies of letting his tax returns leak
President Trump is suing the Internal Revenue Service and Treasury Department for at least $10 billion, claiming the agencies unlawfully allowed an IRS contractor to leak his tax returns and those of his sons and company.
Trump threatens tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba
President Trump on Thursday signed an executive order that would impose a tariff on any goods from countries that sell or provide oil to Cuba.
HealthWatch
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Life expectancy in U.S. hit record high of 79 years in 2024, CDC says
U.S. life expectancy rose to 79 years in 2024 - the highest mark in American history. But the U.S. still ranks below dozens of other countries.
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.
World
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Shark kills 13-year-old boy at popular beach in Brazil
Dozens of beaches along the turquoise coastlines of Pernambuco have been issued with shark warnings, authorities said.
Quieter night in Ukraine as Trump says Putin agreed to pause strikes
Zelenskyy says Ukraine will "take corresponding steps" as Trump says Putin agreed to stop bombing Ukrainian cities for a week.
Remains, jacket found over 2 years after woman vanished in wilderness
Human remains and clothing were found while searching for Belgian national Celine Cremer, who went missing in 2023 in Tasmania, police said.
Lindsey Vonn crashes in final downhill before Winter Olympics
Skiing great Lindsey Vonn crashed in her final downhill before the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.
Trump threatens tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba
President Trump on Thursday signed an executive order that would impose a tariff on any goods from countries that sell or provide oil to Cuba.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
KATSEYE reflects on success and what's next
In just two years, KATSEYE has gone from a Netflix reality competition show to top of the charts, collecting a VMA and two Grammy nominations along the way. The group talks about their journey together in the music industry and what they hope for in the future.
Designer brings life to Grammy red carpet
The nominees and performers for the Grammy Awards will walk the red carpet on Sunday - with flashing camera lights, celebrity interviews and floral designs. Botanical artist Tu Bloom has been the designer behind the red carpet flowers for nearly two decades. He speaks to "CBS Mornings" about his design for this year's red carpet and what drew him to his profession.
Behind-the-scenes look ahead of the Grammys
Final preparations are underway for the Grammys, which air on Sunday on CBS. Music's biggest night could be historic for multiple artists. Anthony Mason got an inside look.
Lindsey Vonn crashes in final downhill before Winter Olympics
Skiing great Lindsey Vonn crashed in her final downhill before the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.
Alex Warren on journey to music career
Alex Warren's hit song "Ordinary," a love letter to his wife, became Billboard's song of the summer in 2025. He spoke to "CBS Mornings" about his music journey and the challenges that came along the way, including losing his father to cancer at a young age. Natalie Morales reports.
Technology
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Uber looks to cash in on self-driving cars — but not by driving them
The rideshare company is getting into the business of providing real-world driving data to autonomous vehicle developers. Here's why.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Science
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Scientists "quite surprised" to find one polar bear population thriving
After decades monitoring polar bears in Norway's far north, researchers say the animals have proven incredibly adaptable, but there are no guarantees for the future.
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.
Crime
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Crime
Man attempts to break Mangione out of jail
Police say they foiled a plot to break Luigi Mangione out of a federal jail in New York City. A man allegedly claimed he was an FBI agent and had "signed by a judge authorizing the release of a specific inmate," which sources say was Mangione.
Don Lemon arrested in Los Angeles
Former CNN news anchor and independent journalist Don Lemon was detained in California overnight, multiple sources tell CBS News. Jake Rosen and Lilia Luciano have the latest confirmed information.
Husband in au pair affair recounts killings of wife, man: "Hoping to de-escalate"
Brendan Banfield testified that he did not fatally stab his wife in 2023, but instead shot the man who did.
Breaking
Prosecutors in Luigi Mangione case can't seek death penalty, judge rules
Luigi Mangione, accused of murdering UnitedHeathcare CEO Brian Thompson, will not face the death penalty if convicted on federal charges, a judge ruled Friday.
4 people shot, 2 killed in Mount Airy, North Carolina
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation said the SBI and Surry County Sheriff's Office are investigating. Two of the four people who were shot have died. The condition of the other two people is unclear.
Space
More Space
Artemis II crew undergoes intense training for rare moon mission
For months, the Artemis II crew and flight controllers have been simulating malfunctions to prepare for their upcoming trip around the Moon.
Inside Artemis II astronauts' training
NASA is preparing for its first crewed mission around the moon in more than 50 years. The Artemis II astronauts include three Americans and one Canadian on a 10-day flight. Mark Strassmann got a look at how they're training.
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.
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
Deputy convicted in Massey murder sentenced
Sean Grayson, a former Illinois deputy, was sentenced Thursday to 20 years in prison after a jury convicted him last year of second degree murder in the killing of Sonya Massey. Massey was shot and killed inside her home after calling police to check on a suspected prowler.
KATSEYE reflects on success and what's next
In just two years, KATSEYE has gone from a Netflix reality competition show to top of the charts, collecting a VMA and two Grammy nominations along the way. The group talks about their journey together in the music industry and what they hope for in the future.
Preview of UFC 325
UFC reporter Laura Sanko joins "CBS Mornings" to break down UFC 325, which features Australian champion Alexander Volkanovski fighting Diego Lopez for the Featherweight title.
Designer brings life to Grammy red carpet
The nominees and performers for the Grammy Awards will walk the red carpet on Sunday - with flashing camera lights, celebrity interviews and floral designs. Botanical artist Tu Bloom has been the designer behind the red carpet flowers for nearly two decades. He speaks to "CBS Mornings" about his design for this year's red carpet and what drew him to his profession.
How lawmakers plan to avert partial shutdown
Congressional lawmakers have hours to go before a partial government shutdown. CBS News' Caitlin Huey-Burns explains the bipartisan plan to keep the government funded.