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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.
Astronauts decline to answer questions about post-flight medical issue
Medical issues aside, the astronauts described a water leak in June that triggered a blizzard in the International Space Station's airlock.
When Trump's victory became clear, online claims of election fraud quieted
As votes were tallied and it became clear that Trump was on his way to victory, the deluge of posts questioning the integrity of the election fell to a trickle.
Tennessee woman shoots monkey who tried to attack her
A woman in Thrasher, Tennessee, told police a vervet money tried to attack her when she went to feed her cats. The monkey later died at the Chattanooga Zoo.
Federal judge rules Illinois assault weapons ban unconstitutional
U.S. District Judge Stephen McGlynn is holding off on enforcing his ruling for 30 days to allow Illinois leaders time to appeal.
Map shows Trump's 2024 election victory came as voters shifted red across the country
It's the first time Trump has topped an opponent in the popular vote, and only the second time since 1988 that any Republican has done so.
MoneyWatch
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Steve Madden says it will cut production in China to avoid Trump tariffs
The footwear- and accessory-maker says it already has a plan in place to reduce its reliance on imports from China.
Trump says he won't sell DJT stock and calls for probe into short sellers
Donald Trump reiterated he doesn't intend to sell his stock in Trump Media, and called for an investigation into short sellers.
Cheese sold at Aldi, Market Basket and more recalled due to listeria worries
Cheese processed at plant in Lena, Illinois, may be tainted by bacteria that can cause serious and fatal infections.
Trump win boosts book sales from "The Handmaid's Tale" to "Hillbilly Elegy"
Dystopian classic "The Handmaid's Tale" was popular throughout Trump's first term, along with George Orwell's "1984."
Starbucks app goes down, customers complain
The app crashed the same day Starbucks introduced its holiday menu, preventing customers from placing mobile orders.
Politics
More Politics
Election 2024: Trump celebrates win, Biden gives speech
Following the 2024 presidential election results, President Biden has invited President-elect Donald Trump to discuss the transition of power.
When Trump's victory became clear, online claims of election fraud quieted
As votes were tallied and it became clear that Trump was on his way to victory, the deluge of posts questioning the integrity of the election fell to a trickle.
Federal judge rules Illinois assault weapons ban unconstitutional
U.S. District Judge Stephen McGlynn is holding off on enforcing his ruling for 30 days to allow Illinois leaders time to appeal.
Map shows Trump's 2024 election victory came as voters shifted red across the country
It's the first time Trump has topped an opponent in the popular vote, and only the second time since 1988 that any Republican has done so.
Supreme Court unlikely to see justices retire before Trump takes office
Justice Sonia Sotomayor is the first Hispanic justice and at 70, is not the oldest member of the Supreme Court.
HealthWatch
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Cheese sold at Aldi, Market Basket and more recalled due to listeria worries
Cheese processed at plant in Lena, Illinois, may be tainted by bacteria that can cause serious and fatal infections.
How to build a "dopamine menu" to combat the fall and winter blues
Worried about slipping into the winter blues? A "dopamine menu" could help. Experts explain how, along with ideas to get started.
Counterfeit weight loss drugs feed demand for cheaper options
Record demand for Ozempic, Wegovy and other weight loss drugs is fueling a surge of dangerous knockoffs.
Space heaters sold on Amazon, TikTok recalled after 7 fires
More than half a million smart electric space heaters recalled after 113 reports of overheating, federal agency says.
FDA to pull common but ineffective cold medicine from market
The FDA says oral phenylephrine, used in many over-the-counter cough and cold medicines, "is not effective as a nasal decongestant."
World
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80 years after her father's death in WWII, she finally learned the where and how
Gerri Eisenhauer's father, Army Pvt. William Walters, was shipped off to World War II before she was even born. In 1944, her family got back his body and a letter that only stated he had died somewhere in France.
Research vessel to scan seafloor for flood victims in Spain
Spain is sending a marine research vessel to scan the seafloor off Valencia's coast in hopes of finding vehicles and people missing after devastating flash floods.
New Canadian councilors refuse to swear allegiance to King Charles
Five newly elected councilors in Dawson City, Canada, have refused to swear a mandatory oath of allegiance to Britain's King Charles III.
Photos show damage aboard Royal Caribbean cruise rocked by rough winds
The Explorer of the Seas was traveling from Barcelona, Spain to Miami, Florida, when it was struck by a strong wind gust.
Russia soldiers who massacred Ukraine family get life in prison
The case marks a rare example of Russia admitting to a crime committed by its troops in Ukraine.
Entertainment
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"Yellowstone" star Kelly Reilly on possible Beth and Rip spin-off series
Kelly Reilly opens up about the possibility of a spin-off featuring her "Yellowstone" character Beth Dutton and fan favorite Rip Wheeler as the series nears its end.
Grammy Awards announce 2025 nominations. Here's the list.
The nominations for the 67th Grammy Awards have been announced, and the nominees include a long list of top music stars.
Wes Bentley on Jamie Dutton's family
"Yellowstone" actor Wes Bentley joins "CBS Mornings Plus: to discuss Jamie Dutton's strained relationships with his adoptive family.
Trump win boosts book sales from "The Handmaid's Tale" to "Hillbilly Elegy"
Dystopian classic "The Handmaid's Tale" was popular throughout Trump's first term, along with George Orwell's "1984."
Kelly Reilly on final season of "Yellowstone"
"Yellowstone" star Kelly Reilly joins "CBS Mornings" to share what lies ahead for her character Beth Dutton in the final episodes of season five.
Technology
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When Trump's victory became clear, online claims of election fraud quieted
As votes were tallied and it became clear that Trump was on his way to victory, the deluge of posts questioning the integrity of the election fell to a trickle.
Robots replace sculptors in Italy
In Carrara, Italy, a studio is using robots to create sculptures, a move that has traditional sculptors concerned about the future of Italian art. Bill Whitaker explores the clash between technology and heritage on "60 Minutes."
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.
Starbucks app goes down, customers complain
The app crashed the same day Starbucks introduced its holiday menu, preventing customers from placing mobile orders.
Australia plans "world-leading" social media ban for children under 16
"Social media is doing harm to our kids and I'm calling time on it," says Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanse.
Science
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Science
Trump set to dismantle Biden climate policies
President-elect Donald Trump's victory clears the way for him to deliver on his campaign promises to dismantle many of President Biden's marquee climate policies. CBS News national environment correspondent David Schechter joins to examine what U.S. climate policy could look like under Trump.
Mountain Fire in California only 7% contained
Authorities are working to contain a massive wildfire in Southern California. The Mountain Fire has burned over 20,000 acres of land in Ventura County, around 65 miles northwest of Downtown Los Angeles. CBS News correspondent Danya Bacchus reports.
DNA reveals surprises about Pompeii eruption victims
Victims thought to be female were male and not related to one another, showing "the story that was long spun around these individuals" was wrong, researchers said.
How 2024 races may affect U.S. climate policy
The presidential race and high-profile congressional contests may be dominating election coverage and fundraising, but many local and state elections are poised to affect the nation's progress on climate action and the shift toward clean energy. CBS News national correspondent Dave Malkoff has more.
Halloween weather breaks records
East Coast and southern U.S. states experienced high temperatures this Halloween, with the heat forecast set to break records. CBS News 24/7 anchor Lana Zak reports on the weather and how New Yorkers celebrated the festivities.
Crime
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Crime
Israeli soccer fans attacked in Amsterdam
There were multiple violent attacks on Israeli fans in Amsterdam after a soccer match Thursday night between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv. Police detained more than 60 people, and five people who were attacked were hospitalized. In a social media post, President Biden described the "antisemitic attacks" as "despicable."
No verdict on first full day of jury deliberations in Delphi double-murder trial
Richard Allen could be sentenced to up to 130 years in prison if convicted of all the charges.
Delphi murders trial jury deliberations
The jury has received the case in the murder trial against Richard Allen, the man accused of killing Abby Williams and Libby German in 2017. CBS News' Ian Lee reports.
DNA links man to Texas teacher's 1995 murder
The 1995 murder of beloved teacher Mary Catherine Edwards has always haunted the city of Beaumont, Texas. This week's "48 Hours" has the remarkable story of how a husband and wife detective team and genealogist were able to track down the suspect in Ohio decades later.
Police-style handcuffs on murder victim made police fear killer was among them
Beloved schoolteacher Mary Catherine Edwards was found murdered wearing police-grade Smith & Wesson handcuffs — sending ripples through the Beaumont, Texas, Police Department.
Space
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Astronauts decline to answer questions about post-flight medical issue
Medical issues aside, the astronauts described a water leak in June that triggered a blizzard in the International Space Station's airlock.
Cargo ship brings science gear, holiday treats to space station crew
With an Election Day docking, the cargo ship delivered 3 tons of supplies and equipment, including an unusual wooden satellite.
The Taurid meteor showers will peak a week apart in November
Two sister meteor showers are already flashing across night skies — and will peak a week apart.
"Halloween comet" disintegrates after flying close to the sun, video shows
NASA confirmed its sun-observing spacecraft captured the moment when the comet Atlas broke into chunks this week as it passed close to the sun.
Chinese space station gets new crew
A Chinese spacecraft carrying a three-person crew, including the country's first female space engineer, has successfully docked with China's orbiting space station. The launch comes as Beijing works to expand its space exploration and put a person on the moon by 2030.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2024
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Serial killer Rodney Alcala's secret photos
See some of convicted serial killer Rodney Alcala's photographs that were discovered by detectives in a Seattle storage locker.
The troubled marriage of Ashley and Doug Benefield
The seesaw marriage between the former ballerina and her much older husband only lasted four years, until she shot him on Sept. 27, 2020.
Evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case
A look at the evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case; plus, newly revealed letters from the man police say wanted to be like fictional serial killer Dexter Morgan.
Summer music heats up 2024
Live performances are in full swing this summer. Scroll through our concert gallery, featuring pictures by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Israeli soccer fans attacked in Amsterdam
There were multiple violent attacks on Israeli fans in Amsterdam after a soccer match Thursday night between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv. Police detained more than 60 people, and five people who were attacked were hospitalized. In a social media post, President Biden described the "antisemitic attacks" as "despicable."
The contenders for Trump's next administration
On the Friday after Election Day, President-elect Donald Trump and his team are racing to staff the incoming administration. CBS News' Scott MacFarlane reports on the names being floated for secretary of state, CIA director, secretary of defense, attorney general and treasury secretary.
Latino voters on why they supported Trump
While a majority of Latinos voted for Vice President Kamala Harris, President-elect Donald Trump was backed by a record 46% of Latino voters, even gaining support in Democratic strongholds like New York City. Lilia Luciano spoke with some voters who were behind that historic shift.
Feds investigate racist text messages
Federal authorities are investigating racist text messages that were sent this week to residents in at least 19 states, from California to Connecticut. The texts were also sent to students at multiple schools and universities. Omar Villafranca has details.
Musk took part in call between Trump, Zelenskyy
A new Axios report says that billionaire Elon Musk was on a phone call between President-elect Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscoring that Musk has a seat at the table as Trump navigates his return to power. Robert Costa has more.