When writing about medical services and the industry as a whole, it’s important to use the correct terminology to ensure clarity and consistency.
In AP Style, understanding whether to use “healthcare” or “health care” can help maintain professional writing standards – so here’ what you need to know!
Healthcare or Health Care in AP Style: Which is Correct?
In AP Style, the correct form is “health care” as two separate words.
The Associated Press uses “health care” when referring to services related to the maintenance or improvement of health, as well as the industry in general.
Therefore, writers should use “health care” to align with AP Style guidelines.
What is the AP Writing Style?
The AP Writing Style, or Associated Press Style, is a standardized way of writing used by journalists and news organizations to ensure clarity, consistency, and readability in their articles.
It is detailed in the AP Stylebook, which covers grammar, punctuation, and usage guidelines specific to news writing.
The AP Stylebook is widely used by newspapers, magazines, and other media outlets to maintain uniformity in their reporting and writing.
Key features of AP Style include specific rules for abbreviations, capitalization, dates, numerals, and titles.
Related – Here’s how to use the words ‘proper‘ and ‘sentence‘ correctly.
When to Use ‘Healthcare’ Spelled as One Word
“Healthcare” spelled as one word is commonly used in contexts outside of AP Style, particularly in more formal or professional settings.
Here are some instances where “healthcare” as one word is appropriate:
Organizational Names: Many organizations, businesses, and institutions use “healthcare” in their names, such as “UnitedHealthcare” or “Mayo Clinic Healthcare.”
Industry References: When referring to the industry as a whole, particularly in business and academic writing, “healthcare” as one word is often preferred.
Example:
“The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving with new technologies.”
Marketing and Branding: In marketing materials and branding, “healthcare” is often used for simplicity and modernity.
Example:
“Our healthcare solutions are designed to improve patient outcomes.”
Consistency in Style Guides: Some style guides and publications prefer “healthcare” as one word for consistency within their own standards.
Example:
“According to the Chicago Manual of Style, ‘healthcare’ is used as a single word.”
While “healthcare” as one word is not the standard in AP Style, it is widely accepted and used in various other contexts, especially where a more formal or cohesive term is desired.
Is Healthcare One Word or Two MLA Style?
In MLA (Modern Language Association) style, “health care” is typically written as two separate words.
This aligns with the convention of the MLA Handbook, which tends to favor clarity and consistency with general American English usage.
Therefore, when writing in MLA style, you should use “health care” as two words.
Example:
“The rising costs of health care are a significant concern in modern society.”
For specific uses or to ensure you are following the most current guidelines, it is always a good idea to consult the latest edition of the MLA Handbook.