What is the main purpose of the Subjective section in SOAP notes?

The main purpose of the Subjective section in SOAP notes is to document the patient's report of their symptoms and concerns. This section captures the patient's personal experiences and feelings regarding their condition, which are crucial for understanding their perspective and the context of their health. By including the patient's own words and descriptions of their symptoms, this part of the SOAP note helps healthcare providers assess the situation more thoroughly. It allows for better patient-centered care by acknowledging how the patient perceives their health issues, which can inform subsequent diagnosis and treatment decisions.

The other options relate to different components of SOAP notes: measurable data and vital signs belong in the Objective section; the treatment plan is typically summarized in the Plan section; and patient education is recorded in the Assessment or Plan sections depending on the structure used. Each part of the SOAP note serves a specific role in patient documentation and care.