Healthcare systems consistently appear in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in opinion and discussion essays. Based on analysis of past exams from 2018-2023, this topic appears approximately 2-3 times annually, making it a high-probability subject for future tests.
Public vs Private Healthcare Systems Comparison
Task Analysis
Some people believe that healthcare should be provided by the government, while others think individuals should be responsible for their own medical costs. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This discussion essay requires:
- Explaining arguments for government-funded healthcare
- Presenting views supporting private healthcare
- Providing a clear personal stance
- Supporting ideas with relevant examples
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
The debate over whether healthcare should be publicly funded or privately financed remains contentious in many societies. While both approaches have merit, I believe a predominantly public healthcare system with some private options offers the most beneficial solution.
Government-funded healthcare provides several crucial advantages. Most importantly, it ensures universal access to medical services regardless of socioeconomic status. Countries like Canada and the UK demonstrate how public systems prevent citizens from facing catastrophic medical expenses or avoiding necessary treatment due to cost concerns. Furthermore, public healthcare typically emphasizes preventive care, which reduces long-term health expenditure and improves population health outcomes.
However, proponents of private healthcare present valid arguments. Private systems often deliver faster access to specialized treatments and advanced medical technologies. For instance, in countries with private healthcare dominance like the United States, patients typically experience shorter waiting times for elective procedures and have greater choice in selecting healthcare providers. Additionally, competition between private providers can drive innovation and service quality improvements.
In my view, a predominantly public system complemented by private options offers the best solution. This hybrid approach ensures essential healthcare remains accessible to all while allowing those who wish to pay for additional services the freedom to do so. Countries like Australia successfully implement this model, where universal public coverage exists alongside a vibrant private sector. This arrangement maximizes both social equity and individual choice.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Healthcare is important for everyone. Some people think government should give free healthcare, but others say we must pay ourselves. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
Government healthcare has good points. When government pays, poor people can see doctor without worry about money. Also, everyone in country gets same treatment. In my country, many people use public hospitals because they cannot afford private ones. This is good for society.
Private healthcare also has advantages. If people pay own money, they can choose better hospitals and doctors. Waiting time is usually shorter in private hospitals. Some people think service is better when they pay themselves. But problem is poor people cannot use these services.
I think best way is mix of both systems. Government should provide basic healthcare for everyone, but people who want special treatment can pay extra money for private care. This way everyone gets medical help when needed but also has choice for better service if they want.
Essay Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Strengths:
- Clear and sophisticated organization
- Advanced vocabulary and complex structures
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Cohesive paragraphing with smooth transitions
- Balanced discussion with clear personal stance
Band 6.5 Essay Limitations:
- Simpler vocabulary and grammar
- Less developed supporting examples
- Basic paragraph structure
- Limited use of complex sentences
- Some informal expressions
Key Vocabulary
- universal access (n) /juːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈækses/ – complete availability to all
- socioeconomic status (n) /ˌsəʊʃɪəʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈsteɪtəs/ – social and economic position
- catastrophic (adj) /ˌkætəˈstrɒfɪk/ – disastrous
- preventive care (n) /prɪˈventɪv keə/ – health maintenance measures
- elective procedures (n) /ɪˈlektɪv prəˈsiːdʒəz/ – optional medical treatments
Practice Suggestion
Try writing your own essay on this alternative topic:
Some argue that private healthcare leads to better medical innovation, while others believe public healthcare systems promote more equitable research. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion with other learners.
