A hospital (or other provider or supplier) hosts an informational program to help patients with diabetes learn more about controlling their disease. To encourage participation, dinner will be provided. The Hospital will also give away flash drives, note pads, and tote bags with the hospital logo to patients.

Does any of this violate the federal fraud and abuse laws? Explain why or why not. Describe any potential issues or factors.

Would it matter if the hospital (or other provider or supplier) was hosting an informational program for other endocrinologists/physicians who treat patients with diabetes to tell them about the hospital's services/programs that may be available to some of their patients? The endocrinologists/physicians invited to the informational program have staff privileges at the hospital and sometimes admit (refer) patients to the hospital.