The debate between free and paid healthcare systems has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 2-3 times annually in recent years. Based on analysis from leading IELTS preparation websites and past exam records, this topic is likely to continue featuring prominently, especially given its global relevance and connection to how economic crises affect mental health.
Some people believe that healthcare should be free for everyone. Others think people should pay for their own medical treatment. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Task Analysis
- Topic: Healthcare systems
- Task type: Discussion + Opinion
- Key requirements:
- Examine both perspectives on healthcare funding
- Present personal viewpoint
- Support arguments with relevant examples
Free vs Paid Healthcare Systems Comparison Chart
Band 8 Sample Essay
The question of whether healthcare should be universally free or paid for by individuals is a matter of significant debate. While both approaches have their merits, I believe a hybrid system would be most beneficial for society.
Proponents of free healthcare argue that medical treatment is a fundamental human right. When healthcare is provided without cost, it ensures that all citizens, regardless of their financial status, can access essential medical services. For instance, in countries like Canada and the UK, their universal healthcare systems have demonstrably reduced health inequalities and prevented medical bankruptcy, which is unfortunately common in systems requiring out-of-pocket payments.
However, advocates of paid healthcare contend that a fee-based system promotes higher quality service and reduces system abuse. They argue that when people pay for medical services, healthcare providers are motivated to maintain higher standards to remain competitive. Additionally, charging for healthcare can help manage resources more efficiently by deterring unnecessary visits and ensuring that services are utilized by those who truly need them.
In my view, the optimal solution lies in implementing a mixed system that combines elements of both approaches. This could involve providing essential medical services free of charge while maintaining a paid tier for non-essential or elective procedures. For example, Singapore’s healthcare system successfully employs this model, where basic healthcare is heavily subsidized while allowing private options for those who prefer premium services.
Benefits of Mixed Healthcare System Implementation
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
The debate about free versus paid healthcare is very important in today’s world. In my opinion, both systems have good and bad points, but free healthcare is better.
Free healthcare has many advantages. First, poor people can get medical treatment when they need it. For example, in my country, many poor families can now go to hospital because the government pays for it. Second, free healthcare helps stop diseases from spreading because everyone can get treatment quickly.
But paid healthcare also has some benefits. When people pay for treatment, hospitals can buy better equipment and pay doctors more money. Also, some people say that if healthcare is free, too many people will go to hospital even when they don’t need to, which wastes resources.
However, I think free healthcare is better because health is very important and everyone should have access to medical treatment. If people have to pay, some might not go to hospital when they are sick, which could be dangerous. For example, during Covid-19, countries with free healthcare could help more people than countries where people had to pay.
Key Vocabulary
- Universal healthcare (n) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsəl ˈhelθkeər/ – healthcare for all citizens
- Out-of-pocket payments (n) /aʊt.əv.ˈpɒkɪt ˈpeɪmənts/ – direct payments by patients
- Medical bankruptcy (n) /ˈmedɪkəl ˈbæŋkrəptsi/ – bankruptcy due to medical bills
- Subsidized (adj) /ˈsʌbsɪdaɪzd/ – financially supported by government
- Elective procedures (n) /ɪˈlektɪv prəˈsiːdʒəz/ – non-emergency medical procedures
Conclusion
This topic remains highly relevant for IELTS candidates. Practice writing essays on similar topics like:
- Private vs. public healthcare quality comparison
- Healthcare funding in developing countries
- Impact of healthcare systems on society
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
