Iowa City pharmacist disputes fraud charges

An Iowa City pharmacist is disputing allegations that he improperly received $1.6 million in insurance claims for expensive drugs to treat hemophilia. Michael Stein pleaded not guilty Monday to federal fraud charges. He operates Pharmacy Matters, which has locations in Iowa City and North Liberty. An indictment alleges Stein filed fraudulent claims seeking reimbursement from Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield in 2008. It says he signed an agreement to give a Florida pharmacy access to customers in the Wellmark network in exchange for compensation.