CMS has expressed concern with the increased fine line between education and sales events. As a result, they have provided more distinct guidelines.

• Sales-related events
  A sales-related event is defined as any gathering of prospects in a group setting where the goal is to entice or persuade the prospect to enroll or in which sales information and/or enrollment forms are distributed.
  
  CMS requires that the dates of all sales-related events, such as Sales Seminars, be submitted prior to their occurrence, reportable on a monthly basis.
  
  As of October 1, 2008, the serving of meals is prohibited at sales events. However, refreshments (e.g., coffee, soda and cookies) are acceptable.

• Non-sales related events
  A non-sales related event is defined as any gathering of prospects in a group setting where the goal is to educate and inform, but not to sell products. Community events such as health fairs are considered non-sales related events.

New in 2009: Producers/agencies cannot accept or distribute sales information and/or enrollment forms at educational events. You may distribute marketing or educational materials, but you may not enroll members or possess Sales packs and/or enrollment forms at educational events. A separate appointment must be arranged with a prospect to market the Blue MedicareRx plans.