In which section of SOAP notes are treatment plans primarily provided?

The correct answer focuses on the "Plan" section of SOAP notes. This section is dedicated to outlining the treatment plan for the patient based on the information gathered in the earlier sections. Here, healthcare providers document the strategies for managing the patient's condition, including prescribed medications, follow-up tests, referrals to specialists, and patient education. It serves as a roadmap for both the healthcare provider and the patient, detailing what steps will be taken to address the issues identified during the encounter.

In contrast, the other sections serve different purposes. The "Subjective" section captures the patient's own descriptions of their symptoms and feelings, while the "Objective" section includes measurable data gathered during the examination, such as vital signs and physical findings. The "Assessment" section combines the subjective and objective findings to give a professional evaluation of the patient's condition. Therefore, the treatment plans specifically reside within the "Plan" section, making it a critical component of the SOAP format for documentation and care continuity.