Rising healthcare costs have become a frequent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent tests. As the role of preventive healthcare in reducing medical costs continues to gain importance, understanding how to address this topic is crucial for IELTS candidates.
Rising healthcare costs affecting global population
Analyzing the Task
Some people believe that governments should be responsible for reducing healthcare costs, while others think that individuals should pay for their own health expenses. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on healthcare cost responsibility
- Present a balanced discussion
- Provide a clear personal stance
- Support arguments with relevant examples
Band 9 Model Essay
Healthcare financing remains one of the most debated topics globally, with differing views on whether governments or individuals should bear the primary responsibility. While both approaches have merit, I believe a balanced combination of government intervention and personal responsibility is most effective.
Those who support government responsibility argue that healthcare is a fundamental human right. When governments manage healthcare costs, it ensures universal access to medical services regardless of socioeconomic status. For instance, The role of AI in healthcare innovation has shown how government-funded research can lead to more cost-effective treatments. Additionally, government oversight can regulate prices and prevent exploitation by private healthcare providers.
Conversely, proponents of individual responsibility contend that personal accountability leads to more responsible health choices. When people must consider costs, they are more likely to engage in preventive care and maintain healthier lifestyles. This approach also encourages competition in the healthcare market, potentially driving down prices while improving service quality.
In my view, the most effective solution combines both approaches. Governments should provide basic healthcare coverage and regulate costs, while individuals contribute through reasonable co-payments and maintain healthy lifestyles. This hybrid system, similar to the role of public health initiatives in reducing healthcare costs, has proven successful in many developed nations.
Band 7 Model Essay
The question of who should be responsible for healthcare costs has become increasingly important in modern society. This essay will discuss both viewpoints and provide my perspective on this matter.
Many people believe that governments should take primary responsibility for healthcare costs. They argue that access to healthcare is a basic right and that government management ensures fair distribution of medical services. For example, in countries with universal healthcare systems, citizens receive necessary treatments regardless of their financial situation.
On the other hand, supporters of individual responsibility maintain that people should pay for their own healthcare. They suggest that this approach makes individuals more conscious about their health choices and reduces unnecessary medical visits. Furthermore, they argue that personal responsibility in healthcare leads to more efficient resource allocation.
From my perspective, while both arguments have validity, a combined approach would be most beneficial. Governments should provide essential healthcare coverage, particularly for serious conditions and preventive care, while individuals could contribute to routine medical expenses. This balance ensures both accessibility and responsible usage of healthcare services.
Vocabulary Analysis
- socioeconomic (adj.) /ˌsəʊsɪəʊˌekəˈnɒmɪk/ – relating to social and economic factors
- universal access (n.) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈækses/ – availability to all people
- oversight (n.) /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – supervision, monitoring
- contend (v.) /kənˈtend/ – argue, claim
- hybrid (adj.) /ˈhaɪbrɪd/ – combining different elements
Additional Practice Topics
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- The role of private insurance in healthcare systems
- Impact of technological advancement on healthcare costs
- Preventive healthcare versus curative treatments
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
