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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.
Pope Leo issues latest rebuke of Iran conflict: "Enough with war!"
Pope Leo XIV offered his strongest condemnation yet of the war in Iran on Saturday, appearing to take multiple veiled shots at President Trump.
U.S. naval destroyers have crossed the Strait of Hormuz, CENTCOM says
The destroyers were beginning mine-clearing operations in the vital waterway, U.S. Central Command said Saturday.
U.S. set to deport family of Iranian propagandist "Screaming Mary"
The State Department said on Saturday it has revoked the green cards and detained the family of the Iranian regime propagandist known as "Screaming Mary."
At age 102, a New York man is still striving for perfection, through pottery
George Strausman of Great Neck, New York, is 102 years old and still works four days a week in his family's construction business. But it's what he does on his day off that is even more remarkable.
9 highlights from Artemis II's epic journey around the moon
The Artemis II crew's nine-day moon mission set a record for the farthest any human has ever traveled from Earth. Here's a look at the key moments.
MoneyWatch
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Tesla wins Dutch approval to use self-driving features, a first for Europe
The Netherlands' decision now goes to the European Commission for full authorization.
Anthropic's Mythos AI can spot flaws in almost every computer on earth. Uh-oh.
Could powerful AI models like Anthropic's Mythos give cybercriminals and other bad actors a roadmap for exploiting tech systems?
IMF chief concerned about Anthropic cybersecurity risks: "Time is not our friend"
Kristalina Georgieva, the head of the International Monetary Fund, called on key institutions to work together to manage cybersecurity risks.
Bessent, Fed's Powell met with bank CEOs over potent new Anthropic AI
Financial industry leaders met to discuss potential cyber risks posed by Anthropic's latest AI model, which has found weaknesses in every major computer operating system.
Why a Strait of Hormuz "toll" would pose economic and geopolitical risks
Energy industry experts warn that allowing Iran to charge ships to ensure safe passage through the strait would raise energy costs.
Politics
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Judge told to reconsider security implications of halting White House ballroom
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit said it did not have enough information to decide how much of the project can be suspended without jeopardizing the safety of the president.
First glimpse of 2028 Democratic field at National Action Network Convention
A horde of 2028 Democratic presidential hopefuls attended Al Sharpton's National Action Network conference, nearly two years before the first primary votes will be cast.
Is Hungarian leader and MAGA darling Viktor Orbán about to be ousted?
The latest polls indicate that Viktor Orbán, an international ally of President Trump, and his Fidedz party are trailing the rival Tisza party.
Dems call on Swalwell to drop out of gov race amid sexual assault allegations
The woman alleged the California gubernatorial candidate sexually assaulted her twice when she was too drunk to consent.
IMF chief concerned about Anthropic cybersecurity risks: "Time is not our friend"
Kristalina Georgieva, the head of the International Monetary Fund, called on key institutions to work together to manage cybersecurity risks.
HealthWatch
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A teen athlete's headache wouldn't stop. It took a year to find a cure.
Jack Alston was used to migraines, but after two concussions in middle school, he was stuck with a headache that wouldn't go away.
Medicaid work rules will stress states' staffing capacity
Some states already don't have enough staff to quickly process Medicaid applications and answer enrollees' phone calls. Researchers say they may not be prepared to handle new Medicaid work rules, predicting people will lose coverage as a result.
Exclusive
2 more drug companies to officially launch on TrumpRx
Two more drug-making giants, Abbvie and Genentech, will start selling popular medications on the White House's discounted pharmaceutical site as soon as Monday.
Social media driving teens toward steroids, extreme body transformations
Behind some of the viral physiques lies a troubling trend: the use of a powerful drug never approved for humans.
Scientist with rare ALS genetic mutation looks to experimental treatment
Every few months for the past three years, Jeff Vierstra has been receiving infusions in his spine that target and disable a mutated gene that made it likely he would develop ALS.
World
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Pope Leo issues latest rebuke of Iran conflict: "Enough with war!"
Pope Leo XIV offered his strongest condemnation yet of the war in Iran on Saturday, appearing to take multiple veiled shots at President Trump.
U.S. naval destroyers have crossed the Strait of Hormuz, CENTCOM says
The destroyers were beginning mine-clearing operations in the vital waterway, U.S. Central Command said Saturday.
Authorities seize 5 tons of cocaine from banana, wine shipments
The drugs were seized at London Gateway, a deep-sea container port about 30 miles from London.
U.S. set to deport family of Iranian propagandist "Screaming Mary"
The State Department said on Saturday it has revoked the green cards and detained the family of the Iranian regime propagandist known as "Screaming Mary."
Tesla wins Dutch approval to use self-driving features, a first for Europe
The Netherlands' decision now goes to the European Commission for full authorization.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
04/11: Saturday Morning
The Artemis II crew is back on Earth after a successful splashdown. Meanwhile, the world awaits results of U.S. and Iranian talks in Pakistan.
Marking 50 years since a key pinball moment
Journalist Roger Sharpe is known as the "The Man Who Saved Pinball," after he helped overturn New York City's 35-year ban on the game. "CBS Saturday Morning" sits down with Sharpe to discuss the 50th anniversary of a key moment in pinball history.
Levy Rozman on new book "Chess for Babies"
Chess master Levy Rozman join "CBS Saturday Morning" to discuss his newest book, "Chess for Babies," and how his online presence is changing the way people learn to play the game.
Theo Lawrence performs "Dear Pillow"
Theo Lawrence grew up outside of Paris, but developed his love for American country music by checking out records at his local library. He moved to Texas in 2023 and released his debut album, "Cherie." His next adventure is a coast-to-coast tour, including a stop at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium with Alison Krauss & Union Station. Here's Theo Lawrence performing "Dear Pillow."
Theo Lawrence performs "California Poppy"
Theo Lawrence grew up outside of Paris, but developed his love for American country music by checking out records at his local library. He moved to Texas in 2023 and released his debut album, "Cherie." His next adventure is a coast-to-coast tour, including a stop at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium with Alison Krauss & Union Station. Here's Theo Lawrence performing "California Poppy."
Technology
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Technology
Why new AI model is considered too powerful
Anthropic has announced that it is teaming up with industry competitors to "secure the world's most critical software" from its own AI model, Mythos. New York Times reporter Mike Isaac joins "The Takeout" with more.
Anthropic's Mythos AI can spot flaws in almost every computer on earth. Uh-oh.
Could powerful AI models like Anthropic's Mythos give cybercriminals and other bad actors a roadmap for exploiting tech systems?
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.
How does Gen Z feels about AI?
A study by Gallup and the Walton Family Foundation looked into how Generation Z feels about using AI. Callie Holtermann, a reporter for The New York Times, joins CBS News with more.
How to stay ahead of AI in your career
A recent CBS News poll found 66% of Americans believe AI will decrease jobs. LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky and chief economic opportunity officer Aneesh Raman share insights on the skills that professionals need to stay ahead of AI at work.
Science
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First major forecast for 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is released
Colorado State University has released its annual Atlantic hurricane forecast, predicting 13 named storms and six hurricanes may develop during the 2026 season.
Creature thought to be world's oldest octopus isn't an octopus after all
Scientists have found evidence that a 300-million-year-old sea creature previously thought to be the world's oldest octopus is actually a nautilus relative.
March smashed heat records in several ways, federal data shows
Last month was the hottest March on record for the Lower 48 states, by the most for any month ever, federal data shows. And a forecast El Niño could heat Earth even more.
Emperor penguins listed as endangered species
The emperor penguin has been declared an endangered species as climate change pushes the icon of Antarctica a step closer to extinction, the global authority on threatened wildlife says.
Stunning photos from Artemis II show Earth, moon, eclipse from space
The astronauts aboard Artemis II are the first humans to see some parts of the far side of the moon with the naked eye.
Crime
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Authorities seize 5 tons of cocaine from banana, wine shipments
The drugs were seized at London Gateway, a deep-sea container port about 30 miles from London.
Latest on woman missing in the Bahamas
Lynette Hooker was reported missing in the Bahamas one week ago by her husband, Brian, who said she fell off their boat. Hooker was arrested on Thursday in connection to his wife's disappearance. "CBS Saturday Morning" speaks with people who knew the couple to learn more.
Malnourished boy found locked in utility van since 2024, police say
A 9-year-old boy was rescued this week after living locked in his father's utility van in eastern France since 2024, according to the local prosecutor.
DHS investigates killing of gas station clerk
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has been drawn into the case of a woman who was killed in a hammer attack last week at a gas station in Fort Myers, Florida, after a Haitian immigrant was taken into custody on homicide charges in connection with the attack. Nicole Valdes has the latest.
Abusive husband gets 8 years in prison for wife's death by suicide
Lee Milne, 40, was sentenced to eight years in prison following his conviction in Glasgow's High Court for culpable homicide and engaging in abusive behavior.
Space
More Space
9 highlights from Artemis II's epic journey around the moon
The Artemis II crew's nine-day moon mission set a record for the farthest any human has ever traveled from Earth. Here's a look at the key moments.
Artemis II crew splashes down to end historic moon mission
NASA's Artemis II astronauts returned to Earth with a splashdown landing in the Pacific Ocean after making a high-speed reentry through the atmosphere.
How an 8-year-old designed a zero-gravity indicator for Artemis II
The development of the mission mascot and viral sensation Rise began over a year before Artemis II blasted off.
As Artemis II heads back to Earth, crew stakes their lives on the heat shield
Despite problems during the unpiloted Artemis I reentry, the Artemis II crew is confident their heat shield will protect them during a fiery descent to Earth.
NASA drops Artemis II moon mission playlist with astronauts' wake-up songs
The moon music tradition started more than 50 years ago, NASA said as it shared the Artemis II crew's playlist this week.
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.
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
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Latest CBS News Videos
Iran proposes Strait of Hormuz toll
Iran is reportedly planning to charge ships crossing the Strait of Hormuz a toll. CBS News contributor Joe Zacks has more.
Gulf states react to U.S.-Iran ceasefire
U.S. officials are meeting Iranian and Pakistani officials in Islamabad on Saturday in direct talks, the White House says. CBS News' Haley Ott has more on the global reaction to the two-week ceasefire.
Trump sounds off on Strait of Hormuz
President Trump said the U.S. is "clearing out" the Strait of Hormuz on social media Saturday. Meanwhile, U.S. officials are meeting face-to-face with Iranian and Pakistani officials in Islamabad. CBS News' Taurean Small has the latest.
Risk on the Road | Sunday on 60 Minutes
In an eight-month investigation, 60 Minutes unveils a dangerous scheme many Americans have never heard of. It may be putting everyone at risk on the road. Sunday.
Expert warns of "economic catastrophe"
Aaron MacLean, a military expert and CBS News contributor, says that if the Strait of Hormuz is not opened shortly, "there is an economic catastrophe coming."