Universal basic healthcare is a topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends, we can expect this subject to continue being a popular choice for test-makers. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams and analyze sample essays for different band scores.
Some people believe that governments should provide universal basic healthcare for all citizens, regardless of their ability to pay. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on whether governments should provide universal basic healthcare to all citizens, regardless of their financial situation. Key points to consider:
- The main topic is universal basic healthcare
- The focus is on government responsibility
- The question mentions “regardless of ability to pay,” highlighting the aspect of equal access
- You need to state your level of agreement or disagreement and explain your position
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Healthcare is a fundamental human right, and I strongly agree that governments should provide universal basic healthcare for all citizens, irrespective of their financial status. This approach not only ensures a healthier population but also contributes to a more equitable and productive society.
Firstly, universal basic healthcare promotes equality and social justice. When healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of income levels, it reduces the disparities in health outcomes between different socioeconomic groups. This is particularly crucial in developing countries where income inequality is often stark. For instance, in India, the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat scheme has significantly improved healthcare access for millions of underprivileged citizens, demonstrating the positive impact of government-led universal healthcare initiatives.
Moreover, a healthy population is more productive and contributes more to the economy. When people have access to preventive care and early treatment, they are less likely to develop serious illnesses that could impair their ability to work. This, in turn, reduces the economic burden of lost productivity and long-term healthcare costs. Countries like Japan and Sweden, which have long-standing universal healthcare systems, consistently rank high in global productivity indices, partly due to their healthy workforces.
However, implementing universal basic healthcare is not without challenges. The primary concern is the financial burden on governments, especially in countries with limited resources. Nevertheless, this can be addressed through efficient resource allocation, preventive care focus, and innovative funding models. For example, Thailand’s successful universal healthcare system is funded through a mix of general taxation and co-payments, making it sustainable despite the country’s developing economy status.
In conclusion, while the implementation of universal basic healthcare may pose initial challenges, its long-term benefits to society and the economy far outweigh the costs. Governments should prioritize this initiative as it aligns with the principles of equality, social justice, and economic progress. By ensuring that all citizens have access to essential healthcare services, nations can build stronger, healthier, and more prosperous societies for future generations.
(Word count: 309)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
- Clear position: The writer strongly agrees with the statement and maintains this position throughout.
- Coherent structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs with distinct ideas, and a conclusion.
- Well-developed ideas: Each point is elaborated with explanations and relevant examples.
- Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow logically, and appropriate linking words are used (e.g., “Firstly,” “Moreover,” “However”).
- Lexical resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately (e.g., “disparities,” “socioeconomic,” “underprivileged”).
- Grammatical range and accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used correctly, with a mix of simple and compound sentences.
- Task response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, providing a nuanced view of the topic.
Universal basic healthcare concept illustration
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
I agree to some extent that governments should provide universal basic healthcare for all citizens, regardless of their ability to pay. This approach has both advantages and disadvantages that need to be considered.
One main advantage of universal basic healthcare is that it ensures everyone has access to medical treatment. This is important because health is a basic human need. For example, in countries like Canada where there is universal healthcare, people don’t have to worry about huge medical bills when they get sick. This can reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Another benefit is that it can help prevent the spread of diseases. When everyone can see a doctor without worrying about the cost, they are more likely to get treatment early. This can stop diseases from spreading to others in the community. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, countries with universal healthcare were often better able to test and treat people quickly.
However, there are also some drawbacks to this system. The main problem is that it can be very expensive for governments to provide healthcare for everyone. This might mean higher taxes or less money for other important areas like education or infrastructure. Additionally, universal healthcare systems sometimes have long waiting times for non-emergency treatments, which can be frustrating for patients.
In conclusion, while universal basic healthcare has significant benefits, it also comes with challenges. I believe governments should try to provide basic healthcare for all, but they need to carefully plan how to implement and fund such a system to ensure it is sustainable and effective.
(Word count: 262)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
- Clear position: The writer agrees to some extent, showing a balanced view.
- Structure: The essay has a basic structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Idea development: Ideas are presented and supported with some examples, but could be more fully developed.
- Cohesion: There is some use of cohesive devices, but they could be more varied.
- Vocabulary: A mix of simple and more complex vocabulary is used, with some minor errors.
- Grammar: Sentence structures are generally accurate but lack the sophistication of higher band scores.
- Task response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task but could provide more depth and nuance.
Healthcare access comparison infographic
Band 5-6 Sample Essay
I think that governments should give basic healthcare to all people, even if they don’t have money to pay. This is good for many reasons.
First, it is fair to everyone. Rich people and poor people can all get help when they are sick. This is important because health is very important for everyone. For example, in my country, some poor people can’t go to the doctor because it’s too expensive. This is not fair.
Also, it can help the country’s economy. When people are healthy, they can work better and make more money. This means they can pay more taxes and help the country grow. If people are always sick, they can’t work well.
But there are some problems too. It costs a lot of money for the government to pay for everyone’s healthcare. They might need to raise taxes or spend less money on other things like schools or roads. Also, sometimes there are long waiting lists to see doctors in countries with free healthcare.
In conclusion, I think giving free healthcare to everyone is a good idea, but it’s not easy to do. Governments need to think carefully about how to make it work well.
(Word count: 194)
Explanation of Band 5-6 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a lower mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
- Position: The writer’s opinion is clear but simplistic.
- Structure: There is a basic structure, but paragraphs are short and underdeveloped.
- Idea development: Ideas are present but lack depth and detailed examples.
- Cohesion: Limited use of cohesive devices, mostly simple linking words.
- Vocabulary: Mostly simple vocabulary with some attempts at more complex words.
- Grammar: Simple sentence structures dominate, with some errors that don’t impede understanding.
- Task response: The main points of the task are addressed, but the response lacks depth and sophistication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Universal healthcare (noun) – a system where all residents of a country are assured access to healthcare
Pronunciation: /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈhelθkeə(r)/Equitable (adjective) – fair and impartial
Pronunciation: /ˈekwɪtəbl/Socioeconomic (adjective) – relating to or concerned with the interaction of social and economic factors
Pronunciation: /ˌsəʊsɪəʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/Preventive care (noun) – healthcare that aims to prevent illness or disease
Pronunciation: /prɪˈventɪv keə(r)/Sustainable (adjective) – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
Pronunciation: /səˈsteɪnəbl/Infrastructure (noun) – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
Pronunciation: /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/Implementation (noun) – the process of putting a decision or plan into effect
Pronunciation: /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/Disparities (noun) – differences, especially those seen as unfair
Pronunciation: /dɪˈspærətiːz/
Healthcare policy debate illustration
In conclusion, the topic of universal basic healthcare is a complex and important issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar topics such as should governments introduce a universal basic income or should universities offer free education for all citizens. These related subjects can help you develop a broader understanding of social policy issues and improve your essay writing skills.
Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures in your essay. Practice writing essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.