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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.
Supreme Court allows Trump to implement parts of order restricting mail voting
The Supreme Court divided 6-3 in granting the Trump administration's request for emergency relief.
8-year-old girl dies from brain-eating amoeba infection in Louisiana
Lillian Smart, 8, has died after being infected by an extremely rare brain-eating amoeba that is found in warm freshwater, her family said.
Why Trump's Canada tariffs are likely to have a modest impact on prices
Although some Canadian goods will get more expensive in the U.S., trade experts don't expect a broader inflation spike.
Gen Xers fret over Social Security. "I will likely be working in retirement."
Millions of Generation X Americans expect to depend on Social Security as their main — or only — source of retirement income.
Redfin and Zillow must change agreement that hurts competition, FTC says
Federal regulators alleged that a $100 million deal between Redfin and Zillow stifled competition for apartment listings.
MoneyWatch
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Why Trump's Canada tariffs are likely to have a modest impact on prices
Although some Canadian goods will get more expensive in the U.S., trade experts don't expect a broader inflation spike.
Gen Xers fret over Social Security. "I will likely be working in retirement."
Millions of Generation X Americans expect to depend on Social Security as their main — or only — source of retirement income.
Redfin and Zillow must change agreement that hurts competition, FTC says
Federal regulators alleged that a $100 million deal between Redfin and Zillow stifled competition for apartment listings.
Trump announces 50% tariffs on Canadian automotive and steel imports
President Trump said tariffs on Canadian automotive and steel imports will rise to 50% on Jan. 1, 2027, in a social media post.
Canada says it will begin retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods after Labor Day
The U.S. and Canada have wrangled for decades over trade, and somehow, they still managed to remain friends, allies and trading partners.
Politics
More Politics
Supreme Court allows Trump to implement parts of order restricting mail voting
The Supreme Court divided 6-3 in granting the Trump administration's request for emergency relief.
Why Trump's Canada tariffs are likely to have a modest impact on prices
Although some Canadian goods will get more expensive in the U.S., trade experts don't expect a broader inflation spike.
Stars and Stripes reporter says independence "has to be instituted in practice"
Lara Korte, a Stars and Stripes reporter who was dismissed last week, told CBS News on Monday that the paper's editorial independence remains paramount.
Bessent announces campaign to create "economic onslaught" against Iran and its partners
The Trump administration is trying to pull all economic levers at its disposal to cripple Tehran.
Trump announces 50% tariffs on Canadian automotive and steel imports
President Trump said tariffs on Canadian automotive and steel imports will rise to 50% on Jan. 1, 2027, in a social media post.
HealthWatch
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8-year-old girl dies from brain-eating amoeba infection in Louisiana
Lillian Smart, 8, has died after being infected by an extremely rare brain-eating amoeba that is found in warm freshwater, her family said.
Trump puts autistic kids in the spotlight and cuts agencies built to protect them
Researchers and disability rights advocates warn that the dismantling of the Education Department and its erosions of civil rights oversight risk widening the disparities autistic children face.
The explosion of ticks and Alpha-gal syndrome
This year, ER visits for tick bites have increased dramatically, corresponding with a new threat: a rise in Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), where one bite from a lone star tick can make you violently allergic to red meat. How can you best avoid tick bites?
The explosion of ticks and Alpha-gal syndrome
This year, emergency room visits for tick bites have increased dramatically, corresponding with a new threat: a rise in Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), where one bite from a lone star tick can make you violently allergic to red meat. Correspondent David Pogue looks at how residents of Martha Vineyard are addressing an epidemic of Alpha-gal, and talks with experts about how best to avoid tick bites.
8/23: Sunday Morning
Hosted by Steve Hartman. Featured: The explosion of tick bites and Alpha-gal syndrome; singer Kenny Chesney; botanist and bestselling author Robin Wall Kimmerer; origami artist Robert Lang; one artist's very quirky home; an iconic photo of Harlem jazz legends; and a retirement home for musicians in Milan.
World
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Iran-linked hackers took U.K. power plant offline for first time, reports say
The attack happened the same month Iranian-linked hackers are believed to have targeted the water systems of a dozen U.S. states.
A massive data center hub is likely heating up a town outside London
Researchers say residents of Slough, just outside London, are likely very literally feeling the heat from a massive cluster of data centers in their town.
Bessent announces campaign to create "economic onslaught" against Iran and its partners
The Trump administration is trying to pull all economic levers at its disposal to cripple Tehran.
How long before China is ready to deploy humanoid robot soldiers?
A Chinese robotics developer tells CBS News humanoids won't turn against humans as they're just machines: "It all depends on who controls them."
4 arrested after world champion boxer shot dead in South Africa
Zolani Tete made history in 2017 when he took just 11 seconds to knock out his opponent with his first punch to retain his WBO bantamweight crown.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
"Cooking with Levi" family on new cookbook
Levi Zhang and his parents share some recipes from their new cookbook and talk about how their viral videos started.
Bunny Levine, "Gilmore Girls" and "La La Land" actress, dies at 97
Bunny Levine worked as a school librarian for 25 years before pursuing her passion for acting and performing.
Robin Wall Kimmerer on the wonders of nature
Botanist Robin Wall Kimmerer, a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, is author of the New York Times bestsellers "Braiding Sweetgrass" and "The Serviceberry" – books that advocate for living and working in collaboration with the Earth. She talks with correspondent Martha Teichner about the importance of respecting both Western scientific knowledge and Indigenous knowledge, planting trees, and sharing the gifts of nature.
The real no-shoes Kenny Chesney
In his recent memoir, "Heart Life Music," Kenny Chesney describes his life's journey, from Knoxville, Tenn., to No Shoes Nation and beyond. Chesney sits down with Lee Cowan in the Florida Keys, where the country superstar is just another laid-back local, to talk about family, touring, and how he recovered from a 2009 concert which he describes as "hitting a wall." [Originally broadcast Oct. 26, 2025.]
Milan's Casa Verdi, a rest home for musicians living in harmony
Opera great Giuseppe Verdi, one of history's most successful composers, used his fortune to create a retirement home for professional musicians "not favored by fortune." Residents of Casa Verdi in Milan not only share their lifetimes of artistry, they also provide master classes to young musicians. Chris Livesay reports.
Technology
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Technology
Women left behind in AI job boom: LinkedIn
While hiring for AI companies is booming, women are getting left behind, according to new research from LinkedIn. It found that female candidates accounted for 26% of hires for jobs requiring AI skills in the U.S., compared to 50% of women hired into non-AI positions. Sarah Steinberg, the head of global public policy partnerships at LinkedIn, joins CBS News to discuss.
A massive data center hub is likely heating up a town outside London
Researchers say residents of Slough, just outside London, are likely very literally feeling the heat from a massive cluster of data centers in their town.
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 long before China is ready to deploy humanoid robot soldiers?
A Chinese robotics developer tells CBS News humanoids won't turn against humans as they're just machines: "It all depends on who controls them."
Robot beats Usain Bolt's running record
Robots are competing in China, showcasing new skills that may beat records set by humans. CBS News' Anna Coren reports from Beijing.
Science
More Science
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.
Views of the total solar eclipse in Europe
A total solar eclipse was visible in parts of Europe for the first time since 1912. Rob Marciano reports.
Europe sees total solar eclipse
A total solar eclipse turned day into night across a slice of Europe and North America on Wednesday, and put millions in unique contact with the heavens above. Meteorologist Rob Marciano reports from Spain.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
Woman suspected of killing husband found dead
Karen Solomon, a Massachusetts woman wanted for questioning in the death of her police officer husband, has been found dead, Worcester authorities announced on Monday. Law enforcement called the case a "tragic murder-suicide."
Judge in Clancy case rejects call for mistrial
The judge presiding over the Lindsay Clancy murder case rejected the defense's push for a mistrial on Monday. Clancy has admitted to killing her children but has pleaded not guilty, arguing that postpartum psychosis caused her actions. CBS News correspondent Shanelle Kaul and legal contributor Jessica Levinson have the latest.
Lindsay Clancy trial nears closing arguments
The prosecution in the Lindsay Clancy trial continues to call rebuttal witnesses, mainly focusing on the psychological aspects of Clancy's state of mind when she killed her 3 children. CBS News' Shanelle Kaul and legal contributor Jessica Levinson have more.
Lawyer on expert testimony in Clancy trial
The trial for Lindsay Clancy is nearing its end with closing arguments expected this week. Mark Eiglarsh, trial lawyer and former prosecutor, joins CBS News to discuss.
Clancy trial reaches last testimony stage
There are a few more witnesses expected on the stand for rebuttals before the Lindsay Clancy murder trial moves on to jury instructions and closing arguments. CBS News' Shanelle Kaul and Caroline Polisi have more.
Space
More Space
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.
New space object called "black hole star" discovered by astronomers
The newly discovered object looks like a star the size of our solar system, but produces 100 billion times more energy than any star.
Stunning photos show total solar eclipse over Europe
The only total solar eclipse of 2026 crossed the Northern Hemisphere Wednesday, with a path of totality across parts of Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain. See photos and video from the best viewing locations.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
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.
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.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Women left behind in AI job boom: LinkedIn
While hiring for AI companies is booming, women are getting left behind, according to new research from LinkedIn. It found that female candidates accounted for 26% of hires for jobs requiring AI skills in the U.S., compared to 50% of women hired into non-AI positions. Sarah Steinberg, the head of global public policy partnerships at LinkedIn, joins CBS News to discuss.
Growing U.S. trade tensions with Canada
The U.S. is imposing a 50% tariff on $20 billion in Canadian goods. Canada vowed to retaliate with tariffs of their own that would go into effect on Sept. 8. Rob Russo, a Canadian correspondent for The Economist, joins CBS News to discuss.
Woman suspected of killing husband found dead
Karen Solomon, a Massachusetts woman wanted for questioning in the death of her police officer husband, has been found dead, Worcester authorities announced on Monday. Law enforcement called the case a "tragic murder-suicide."
Judge in Clancy case rejects call for mistrial
The judge presiding over the Lindsay Clancy murder case rejected the defense's push for a mistrial on Monday. Clancy has admitted to killing her children but has pleaded not guilty, arguing that postpartum psychosis caused her actions. CBS News correspondent Shanelle Kaul and legal contributor Jessica Levinson have the latest.
Firefighters battle flames and smoke near Reno
Firefighters are working to contain the Hawk Fire near Reno, Nevada, after drought and high winds fueled the flames. CBS News' Jason Allen has more.