In the context of the SOAP format, what does "Plan" refer to?

In the SOAP format, "Plan" refers specifically to the proposed treatment and follow-up guidelines designed to address the patient's condition. This section outlines the healthcare provider's intentions regarding how to manage the patient's health issue. It includes recommendations for treatments, referrals, additional tests that may be necessary, and the scheduling of follow-up appointments.

Each part of the SOAP acronym serves a distinct purpose. The "Subjective" section contains the patient's verbalized symptoms and concerns, while "Objective" includes measurable or observable data gathered during the examination. "Assessment" provides an analysis or diagnosis of the patient's condition. In contrast, the "Plan" is forward-looking and focused on actionable steps or interventions that will be taken to treat the patient, making it an essential part of the patient care process.