Correct Spelling???

[thisberob]

In my frenzy of writing essays, I become confused as to whether or not healthcare is spelled "healthcare" or "health care" or "health-care".

I've always thought it was spelled "healthcare" and have even submitted several applications with that spelling but with some closer google research, it seems that "health care" is more common.

So, what is correct way or is it all a matter of preference?

Thanks for the help!

PS first post!

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[paul411]

http://www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/CMS_FAQ/Compounds/Compounds08.html

Our recommendation is generally to apply only one dictionary as arbiter for a given book or project in order to impose uniform, consistent spelling.

But there is nothing wrong with preferring—as an author especially—one reasonable spelling over another. There is also nothing wrong with preferring one dictionary over another. Chicago recommends Webster's, but we also like American Heritage and Random House.

Finally, I would bet that instances of "health care" in print in one form or another must have grown exponentially in the last fifty years. And whenever a compound becomes common currency, there's a chance it will evolve to become one word. American Heritage seems to recognize this.

Mostly a matter of preference. "Health care" is the most common.

 

[thisberob]

So I guess I'll stick to my guns and keep it as "healthcare".

Apologies for massive amounts grammatical errors...the effects of constant essay writing.

 

[b-real]

Healthcare or health care would be fine. I don't think it's ever hyphenated, though.

 

[TheMightySmiter]

I've always seen it as two words. But I don't think it matters as long as you're consistent.

 

[paul411]

Healthcare or health care would be fine. I don't think it's ever hyphenated, though.

Webster's suggests using the hyphenated version ("health-care") when used as an adjective. (as in: health-care worker, I guess?)

 

[Mithril]

The English language is so fluid and dynamic that I don't think it really matters as long as you're consistent.