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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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This week on "Sunday Morning" (March 15)
A look at the features for this week's broadcast of the Emmy-winning program, hosted by Jane Pauley.
These 2 bills would erase income taxes for millions of Americans
Two Democratic lawmakers are proposing tax reforms that would eliminate federal income taxes for millions of Americans.
One of FBI's most wanted fugitives is captured in quickest arrest ever
Samuel Ramirez Jr., 33, was wanted for his alleged involvement in the murders of two women on May 21, 2023.
Toyota recalls 550,000 Highlander SUVs because seats may fail to lock
Parts defect affecting Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles can increase the risk of injury, according to a safety notice. Here's what to know.
Economic growth late last year was much weaker than previously thought
GDP grew at a sluggish 0.7% pace in the final months of 2025 as the government shutdown hurt economic activity.
MoneyWatch
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These 2 bills would erase income taxes for millions of Americans
Two Democratic lawmakers are proposing tax reforms that would eliminate federal income taxes for millions of Americans.
Toyota recalls 550,000 Highlander SUVs because seats may fail to lock
Parts defect affecting Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles can increase the risk of injury, according to a safety notice. Here's what to know.
Economic growth late last year was much weaker than previously thought
GDP grew at a sluggish 0.7% pace in the final months of 2025 as the government shutdown hurt economic activity.
U.S. launches new investigations into 60 countries as it fights to restore tariffs
The Trump administration has launched investigations into dozens of countries accused of failing to crack down on forced labor, flexing a law that lets the federal government impose tariffs.
Trump administration allows purchase of Russian oil already at sea
The U.S. is temporarily allowing the purchase of Russian oil that's already at sea, in the Trump administration's latest move to loosen sanctions on Russia's oil industry as the world grapples with high oil prices.
Politics
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These 2 bills would erase income taxes for millions of Americans
Two Democratic lawmakers are proposing tax reforms that would eliminate federal income taxes for millions of Americans.
Democratic senators file war powers resolution to try to restrain Trump on Cuba
Senate Democrats have filed legislation hat would keep the U.S. from attacking Cuba without congressional approval as they seek to force a vote on President Trump's stated goal of a "takeover" of the Caribbean country.
Hegseth says "no clear evidence" Iran is placing new mines in Strait of Hormuz
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine briefed on Operation Epic Fury in Iran Friday.
U.S. launches new investigations into 60 countries as it fights to restore tariffs
The Trump administration has launched investigations into dozens of countries accused of failing to crack down on forced labor, flexing a law that lets the federal government impose tariffs.
Trump administration allows purchase of Russian oil already at sea
The U.S. is temporarily allowing the purchase of Russian oil that's already at sea, in the Trump administration's latest move to loosen sanctions on Russia's oil industry as the world grapples with high oil prices.
HealthWatch
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Millions of Americans skip meals, stretch medication to afford health care
Even people with six-figure incomes are making financial sacrifices to pay for medical care, a new study finds.
Disease once linked to mining hits workers in countertops industry
Crystalline silica, which is released into the air when workers cut and polish engineered stone for kitchen countertops, can scar human lungs beyond repair.
"I was fighting to survive": Patients still struggle with preauthorization hurdles
Last summer, the Trump administration announced a voluntary pledge by health insurers to reform prior authorization, but patient advocates and medical providers remain skeptical.
Investigation
There's one building in LA with 89 registered hospices: "Ground zero" for fraud?
A CBS News analysis of records for every hospice operating in Los Angeles County finds indications of fraud are growing.
Raw oysters and clams recalled in 9 states over norovirus risks
Food containing norovirus may smell and taste normal but still cause serious illness if consumed, FDA warns.
World
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Tourists, expats detained in UAE over content showing Iran war impacts
The head of an advocacy group said 21 people were facing charges under the UAE's cybercrime laws as of Thursday, including a 60-year-old British tourist.
Iran says major U.S. tech firms now among its targets in the Middle East
Suspected Iranian cyber and drone attacks are already impacting U.S. tech companies, and Iran says a list of American firms are now on its target list.
Democratic senators file war powers resolution to try to restrain Trump on Cuba
Senate Democrats have filed legislation hat would keep the U.S. from attacking Cuba without congressional approval as they seek to force a vote on President Trump's stated goal of a "takeover" of the Caribbean country.
Hegseth says "no clear evidence" Iran is placing new mines in Strait of Hormuz
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine briefed on Operation Epic Fury in Iran Friday.
Live
6 more U.S. deaths, vague threat from Trump as Iran war nears 2-week mark
The U.S. military says six service members were killed in a plane crash in Iraq, as Iran's continued attacks on Gulf states keep oil prices high.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Texas prepares for SXSW 2026
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson joins CBS News 24/7 Mornings with the latest details on preparations for SXSW 2026.
2026 Oscar winner predictions
The 98th annual Academy Awards will be held on Sunday. With 10 films nominated for the night's biggest honor, best picture, an expert says there are only two major contenders. Entertainment Tonight's Nischelle Turner previews Hollywood's big night.
James Blake on new album, leaving his label
Grammy-winning artist James Blake speaks about making his first solo album as an independent artist. He talks to Anthony Mason about why he decided to leave his record label, what it's like to work with some of the world's biggest musicians and the passion behind his music.
Oscars 2026: Behind the scenes with the best actress nominees
Watch scenes from the performances nominated for best actress at the 98th annual Academy Awards, as well as interviews with the nominees.
Misty Copeland fires back at Timothée Chalamet ballet, opera comments
Ballerina Misty Copeland responded to controversial comments made by actor Timothée Chalamet when he appeared to dismiss the significance of ballet and opera, saying, "No one cares."
Technology
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3 teens took part in a weeklong experiment to curb screen time. It worked.
For one week, three New Jersey high schoolers agreed not to take their phones to bed, and to try different tools to reduce screen time.
How Pentagon-Anthropic AI dispute escalated
The Trump administration has blacklisted AI giant Anthropic, labeling it a supply chain risk. The company has sued in response. New York Times tech reporter Sheera Frenkel joins CBS News to break down the feud.
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.
Memory chip shortage could raise tech prices
An explosion in artificial intelligence data centers and cloud computing is shrinking the supply of memory chips, which is having a major impact on the price consumers pay for everyday tech. CNET editor-in-chief David Katzmaier joins CBS News to discuss.
What is XMoney, Elon Musk's new digital payments platform?
Elon Musk said his long-planned payments platform, dubbed XMoney, is set to launch for select users. Here's what to know.
Science
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Sea levels higher than thought due to "methodological blind spot," study says
A new study in the journal Nature says most sea level rise research may have underestimated coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
What scientists will be looking for when government UFO files are released
Documents might help scientists shed light on unexplained phenomena and government secrets, experts said.
In a first, shark seen on camera in Antarctica waters, surprising researchers
A large shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica's waters, surprising researchers. "There's a general rule of thumb that you don't get sharks in Antarctica," one said.
How Washington's crossing of the Delaware presaged a changing world
On the evening of Christmas 1776, Gen. George Washington surprised the King's forces by leading the Continental Army in a surprise crossing of a near-frozen Delaware River - a watershed military maneuver that dramatized a changing America, and a changing climate.
Crime
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Crime
Artists petition halt to Texas execution
Musician and activist Fat Joe is joining Killer Mike, Young Thug and other artists as they seek a halt to James Broadnax's execution in Texas. Broadnax's music lyrics were used during his sentencing.
Whitmer on antisemitism, synagogue attack
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer addressed the press during a briefing on Friday about the Michigan synagogue attack in West Bloomfield. This comes as more details emerge about the suspect who was killed by security, according to officials.
One of FBI's most wanted fugitives is captured in quickest arrest ever
Samuel Ramirez Jr., 33, was wanted for his alleged involvement in the murders of two women on May 21, 2023.
Details on Michigan synagogue attack suspect
The Department of Homeland Security confirms Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, a Lebanese-born U.S. citizen, was the man behind Thursday's synagogue attack in Michigan. Sources told CBS News that Ghazali lost two brothers, a niece and a nephew to an airstrike in Lebanon about 10 days prior. Jonah Kaplan reports.
Witness on Old Dominion University shooting
A shooting at Old Dominion University in Virginia on Thursday is being investigated as an act of terrorism, the FBI said. One person died and two others were injured during the attack, officials confirmed. CBS News' Nicole Sganga reports.
Space
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NASA targets April 1 for moon mission launch
NASA's huge Space Launch System rocket has been repaired and is ready for rollout back to the launch pad next week.
1,300-pound NASA satellite to crash on Earth
Nearly 14 years after it was launched in 2012, NASA says a 1,300-pound satellite is expected to come crashing back to Earth on Wednesday. Most of it will burn up as it reenters the atmosphere, but NASA warns some debris could survive reentry.
1,300-pound NASA satellite re-enters Earth's atmosphere after 14 years in space
The Van Allen probe's mission was meant to last two years, but ended up going for nearly seven.
Why NASA is overhauling Artemis program
NASA has announced a major overhaul of its Artemis moon program amid ongoing safety concerns. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood has more details.
How NASA plans to get astronauts on the moon
NASA announced an overhaul to its Artemis moon program as safety concerns persist. CBS News space contributor Christian Davenport breaks down the key takeaways.
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
More on Trump comments on Iran to G7 leaders
President Trump told G7 leaders during a virtual meeting that Iran was "about to surrender," Axios reports. The claims apparently occurred before Iran's new Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei's address emerged. CBS News' Olivia Rinaldi reports.
Death toll grows after Iraq aircraft crash
At least six U.S. service members died after an American KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed Thursday in Iraq. CBS News' Eleanor Watson has the latest confirmed information.
Artists petition halt to Texas execution
Musician and activist Fat Joe is joining Killer Mike, Young Thug and other artists as they seek a halt to James Broadnax's execution in Texas. Broadnax's music lyrics were used during his sentencing.
Whitmer on antisemitism, synagogue attack
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer addressed the press during a briefing on Friday about the Michigan synagogue attack in West Bloomfield. This comes as more details emerge about the suspect who was killed by security, according to officials.
Texas prepares for SXSW 2026
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson joins CBS News 24/7 Mornings with the latest details on preparations for SXSW 2026.