Introduction to SOAP Note Guides and Examples

Updated for 2026

Welcome to our comprehensive resource for SOAP Note Guides and Examples. Whether you're a medical student, healthcare professional, or therapist, mastering the art of SOAP notes is essential for effective patient care and documentation. SOAP notes—an acronym for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan—are a standardized method for recording patient information, ensuring consistency and clarity across the healthcare continuum.

What's New for 2026

Our guides have been refreshed with the latest industry developments:

• AI-Assisted Documentation Guide: With 66% of physicians now using AI in practice, learn best practices for ambient clinical intelligence and AI scribes
• Telehealth SOAP Notes Guide: Updated for CMS 2026 requirements including new mental health in-person visit rules and audio-only documentation
• Group Therapy Documentation: New guide covering CPT 90853 requirements and individual progress note documentation
• All specialty guides now include AI documentation tips and telehealth considerations

What Are SOAP Notes?

SOAP notes are a systematic way to document patient encounters and clinical findings. Each section serves a specific purpose:

• Subjective (S): This section captures the patient's personal experiences, symptoms, and history as reported by them.
• Objective (O): Here, you'll document measurable data such as physical exam findings, vital signs, and test results.
• Assessment (A): This is where you provide your professional analysis, including diagnoses and differential diagnoses.
• Plan (P): The final section outlines your proposed treatment plan, follow-up steps, and any patient education provided.

Why Are SOAP Notes Important?

SOAP notes are crucial for several reasons:

1. Consistency: They provide a uniform structure for recording patient information, making it easier for multiple healthcare providers to follow and understand the patient's history and care plan.
2. Clarity: By separating subjective complaints from objective findings, SOAP notes help ensure that clinical decisions are based on accurate and comprehensive data.
3. Continuity of Care: Well-documented SOAP notes facilitate seamless transitions between healthcare providers, enhancing patient safety and quality of care.
4. Legal Documentation: SOAP notes serve as a legal record of patient interactions and clinical decisions, which can be critical in case of disputes or audits.

Who Should Use These Guides and Examples?

Our guides and examples are designed for:

• Medical Students: Learn the foundational skills of patient documentation and develop good habits early in your training.
• Healthcare Professionals: Enhance your clinical documentation to improve patient care and streamline your workflow.
• Therapists: Utilize SOAP notes to systematically record therapy sessions, track progress, and adjust treatment plans effectively.

What You'll Find in Our Resource

• Step-by-Step Guides: Detailed instructions on how to write each section of a SOAP note, tailored for various healthcare settings.
• Examples: Real-world examples of SOAP notes for different medical conditions and scenarios, helping you understand how to apply the principles in practice.
• Templates: Downloadable PDF templates that you can use as a starting point for your own SOAP notes.
• Tips and Best Practices: Advice on common pitfalls to avoid and techniques to enhance the clarity and accuracy of your documentation.

We invite you to explore our resources, practice your skills, and feel confident in your ability to create precise and effective SOAP notes. By mastering this essential tool, you are taking an important step toward providing excellent patient care and advancing your professional development.