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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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Disney names parks chief Josh D'Amaro to succeed CEO Bob Iger
Josh D'Amaro, who oversees Disney theme parks and dozens of resort hotels worldwide, will become the next Disney CEO.
Consumer Reports' top 10 vehicles for 2026 — see which cars made the list
For the first time, the top 10 cars on Consumer Reports' annual list of best new vehicles also include electric or hybrid models.
Erin Jackson, Frank Del Duca chosen as U.S. flagbearers for Winter Olympics
Erin Jackson is the first Black woman to win an individual gold medal at a Winter Olympics. Frank Del Duca is the first bobsledder in 70 years to carry the U.S. flag.
Voice behind Three Dog Night's "Joy to the World," Chuck Negron, dies at 83
Chuck Negron, a founding member of Three Dog Night whose lead vocals powered a string of hits for one of the top rock acts of the late 1960s and early '70s has died. He was 83.
Hennepin County, Minnesota sheriff says she feels "scapegoated" by feds
The Hennepin County sheriff is considering whether to notify ICE before releasing people accused of the "worst of the worst" crimes — murder, rape and violent felonies.
MoneyWatch
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Disney names parks chief Josh D'Amaro to succeed CEO Bob Iger
Josh D'Amaro, who oversees Disney theme parks and dozens of resort hotels worldwide, will become the next Disney CEO.
Consumer Reports' top 10 vehicles for 2026 — see which cars made the list
For the first time, the top 10 cars on Consumer Reports' annual list of best new vehicles also include electric or hybrid models.
Want to see Super Bowl 2026 commercials early? These ads are already live.
Many Super Bowl 60 ads are already online, along with teasers for commercials that will be unveiled during the NFL championship on Feb. 8.
United is upgrading its computers. Here's how that could impact travelers.
Starting early Wednesday, United customers won't be able to book flights and access other services as the airline upgrades its reservation system.
Target faces pressures to take a stand against ICE's actions in Minneapolis
The American Federation of Teachers called on Target CEO Michael Fiddelke to "clearly state" that the company wants ICE agents to leave Minnesota.
Politics
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Live
House set to vote on package to end partial funding lapse
The House is set to vote on funding major parts of the government to end the partial government shutdown. Follow live updates here.
Hennepin County, Minnesota sheriff says she feels "scapegoated" by feds
The Hennepin County sheriff is considering whether to notify ICE before releasing people accused of the "worst of the worst" crimes — murder, rape and violent felonies.
Sens. Shaheen, Collins urge Pentagon not to sideline Havana Syndrome research
Senators Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire and Susan Collins of Maine sent Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth a letter warning against any changes that could affect victims' care.
Don Lemon says he offered to turn himself in but agents were sent for him
Don Lemon says he offered to turn himself in to face charges over his coverage of a protest at a church but federal agents were sent for him anyway.
Judge blocks DHS from ending deportation protections for 350,000 Haitians
A federal judge on Monday blocked the Trump administration from revoking Temporary Protected Status for Haitians, granting a last-minute reprieve to 350,000 immigrants who were set to lose protections on Tuesday.
HealthWatch
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5 ways to find affordable care without health insurance
Many Americans are expected to lose ACA or Medicaid coverage in the coming months and years, but doctors and researchers say there are still ways to find affordable care.
When health insurance costs more than the mortgage
As health care costs skyrocket and federal lawmakers pull back help on ACA insurance premiums, more middle-income families are facing tough choices on health care.
Extended Interview: Mel Robbins
In this web exclusive, author and podcaster Mel Robbins talks with Norah O'Donnell about "The Let Them Theory."
Book excerpt: "The Let Them Theory" by Mel Robbins
In her latest bestseller, the motivational speaker discusses how personal growth is only possible when you stop pouring energy into things you cannot control – which includes changing other people.
A cop thought he had a muscle cramp. He ended up fighting for his life.
Sgt. Chris Johnson was told that his heart condition had nearly been "instantly fatal." Rapid medical care and rigorous therapy helped him recover.
World
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Boy swims 2.5 miles to save family swept out to sea: "Superhuman"
"The waves are massive and I have no life jacket on. … I just kept thinking 'just keep swimming, just keep swimming,'" Austin Appelbee said.
X office in Paris searched as prosecutor summons Musk for questioning
French officials search X's office in Paris and ask Elon Musk to answer questions about the platform amid a probe into its algorithms and AI functions.
Trump lowers tariffs on India, saying Modi agreed to stop buying Russian oil
President Trump announced that he and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have agreed to a trade deal that will lower tariffs and halt India's purchase of Russian oil.
Elephant kills tourist in Thailand, 3rd fatality linked to same animal
The victim's wife managed to escape after park rangers scared the animal away, officials said.
Norwegian princess' son accused of assault ahead of trial on rape charges
Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit's son hit with new criminal charges as she apologizes for "poor judgment" over Epstein ties.
Entertainment
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Disney names parks chief Josh D'Amaro to succeed CEO Bob Iger
Josh D'Amaro, who oversees Disney theme parks and dozens of resort hotels worldwide, will become the next Disney CEO.
Goodell on Bad Bunny halftime performance
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell spoke Monday about this year's Super Bowl halftime performer, Bad Bunny, following the artist's message about ICE at the Grammy Awards on Sunday. Goodell said the halftime performance is "used to unite people" and added, "I think Bad Bunny understands that and I think he'll have a great performance."
Voice behind Three Dog Night's "Joy to the World," Chuck Negron, dies at 83
Chuck Negron, a founding member of Three Dog Night whose lead vocals powered a string of hits for one of the top rock acts of the late 1960s and early '70s has died. He was 83.
Trump says he's not planning to rip down Kennedy Center
As President Trump prepares to shut down the Kennedy Center for renovations, sources told CBS News there has been no discussion of demolishing or gutting the building.
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.
Technology
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Technology
AI agents are using a social media platform
Moltbook, a social media platform for AI agents to interact, is growing. The Verge senior AI reporter Hayden Field joins CBS News with more details.
Inside the new social media platform for AI
Moltbook was launched last week by a software developer and mirrors the template of Reddit, but it's not for humans. Instead, it allows artificial intelligence agents to post written content and interact with other chatbots through comments, up-votes and down-votes. Tyler Cowen, professor of economics at George Mason University, 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.
Alarming report on Amazon AI training
A new report from Bloomberg says Amazon found hundreds of thousands of cases of suspected child sex abuse material in its AI training data. Bloomberg tech reporter Riley Griffin joined CBS News to discuss.
How the gramophone changed music
While Thomas Edison's cylinders were the first to play recorded sound, they were impractical – leading Emile Berliner to come up with a better way to play music: The gramophone, invented in 1887, which played flat discs. Jane Pauley reports.
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
Search escalates for Savannah Guthrie's mom
The search is escalating for "Today" host Savannah Guthrie's 84-year-old mother, Nancy, who police believe was abducted from her Arizona home over the weekend. CBS News' Andres Gutierrez has the latest.
Clintons change their mind on testifying
Bill and Hillary Clinton are willing to testify on the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, a change from their initial stance. CBS News' Nikole Killion reports.
Sheriff on Savannah Guthrie's mom
Arizona officials are investigating Nancy Guthrie's disappearance in Arizona as an abduction. CBS News' Jonathan Vigliotti reports.
Man convicted of killing wife and stranger
A jury on Monday convicted Brendan Banfield in the murders of his wife and a stranger. Prosecutors argued that Banfield was in love with his au pair, with whom he admitted to starting an affair, and that he was willing to kill his wife to be with her.
Clintons agree to testify
Bill and Hillary Clinton have agreed to testify on the Jeffrey Epstein investigation to avoid the House of Representatives holding the pair in contempt of Congress. CBS News' Katrina Kaufman reports.
Space
More Space
NASA moon launch off until March at earliest due to issues during tests
NASA says it can't try until March at the earliest to send a crewed craft on a flight around the moon and back due to hydrogen leaks during testing of the huge Artemis II rocket that would lift the craft into space.
Inside NASA's Artemis II mission
Artemis II echoes the Apollo-era missions that paved the way for the first moon landing — and sets the stage for what comes next.
After more than 50 years, NASA astronauts are going back to the moon
More than 50 years after NASA's last human mission to the moon, four astronauts, three Americans and a Canadian, are set for the 10-day Artemis II mission to the far side of the moon.
Moon rocket fueling test on tap to clear way for launch
If the countdown and fueling test go well, four astronauts will set their sights on a Super Bowl Sunday launch to the moon.
NASA's Artemis II slated to be a series of firsts
Extreme cold has forced NASA to reschedule its next moon mission. On Saturday, the massive Artemis II rocket stands on launch pad 39B at the Kennedy Space Center. Like Apollo 8 in 1968, it won't land on the lunar surface. Mark Strassmann has more on why the latest mission is considered groundbreaking.
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
Search escalates for Savannah Guthrie's mom
The search is escalating for "Today" host Savannah Guthrie's 84-year-old mother, Nancy, who police believe was abducted from her Arizona home over the weekend. CBS News' Andres Gutierrez has the latest.
Witkoff meeting Netanyahu in Israel
President Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff is set to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as tensions remain high in the Middle East over Iran. CBS News' Ramy Inocencio reports.
Concern over Kennedy Center renovations
President Trump has said he will "not tear down" the Kennedy Center as it is set to close in July for two years for renovations. The cost of the project is estimated to be $200 million. Democrats worry that, like the White House ballroom and East Wing, the project will grow over time with little oversight or input from Congress.
Clintons change their mind on testifying
Bill and Hillary Clinton are willing to testify on the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, a change from their initial stance. CBS News' Nikole Killion reports.
Super Bowl week kicks off
Super Bowl week is underway as thousands of journalists, analysts and fans went to the San Jose convention center Monday to ask players and coaches about Super Bowl LX. Kris Van Cleave reports.