STAT seeks reader input on adopting AP’s “healthcare” spelling

The Associated Press Stylebook recently announced that the term "healthcare" should be written as a single word, updating its long-standing guidance.

STAT, which has used the two-word form "health care" since its launch in 2015, is now debating whether to adopt the new AP recommendation, and opinions within the newsroom are divided.

The publication is asking its readers, particularly those working in the health care sector, to vote on the preferred spelling through an online form, and says selected comments may appear in a future roundup.

The discussion highlights how even small language choices can affect reporting standards across the industry.