What is the first step an HIM professional should take to define a medical practice's designated record set?

The correct choice focuses on understanding the legal and regulatory framework governing health records, which is crucial for defining a medical practice's designated record set. The designated record set refers to the group of records that are used to make decisions about individuals, and it is guided by various statutes, regulations, and guidelines that dictate what must be included and how it can be accessed.

By developing a list of relevant statutes and regulations, the HIM professional can ensure compliance with laws such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and other applicable federal and state laws. This foundational knowledge allows the professional to establish which documents and information are legally required to be included in the designated record set. Understanding these requirements is essential in protecting patient confidentiality and ensuring that records are managed properly within the healthcare organization.

In contrast, while the other options may contribute valuable insights into the operational aspects of the practice, they do not address the legal and regulatory context as comprehensively as the choice about statutes and regulations. Reviewing existing patient records, interviewing clinicians, and assessing technology are all important steps in managing health records; however, they are more supportive actions that follow the critical step of ensuring compliance with the legal framework governing health information.