Healthcare costs have become a pressing concern globally, and this topic frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on past exam trends and current global issues, it’s highly likely that questions related to rising healthcare costs will continue to be a recurring theme in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a relevant question and provide sample essays to help you prepare for this topic.
Some people believe that the government should be responsible for reducing the rising cost of healthcare. Others think that individuals should take more responsibility for their own health and well-being. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that the government should be responsible for reducing healthcare costs
- Discuss the view that individuals should take more responsibility for their health
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your position.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The escalating cost of healthcare is a global concern that has sparked debate about who should bear the responsibility for addressing this issue. While some argue that governments should take the lead in curbing these rising expenses, others contend that individuals must play a more active role in managing their health. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government intervention argue that healthcare is a fundamental human right and that authorities have the resources and power to implement systemic changes. They contend that governments can negotiate better prices with pharmaceutical companies, implement cost-effective preventive care programs, and regulate the healthcare industry to prevent price gouging. For instance, countries with universal healthcare systems, such as Canada and the United Kingdom, have demonstrated that government involvement can lead to more affordable healthcare for citizens.
On the other hand, those who advocate for individual responsibility argue that personal choices significantly impact health outcomes and healthcare costs. They believe that by adopting healthier lifestyles, engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking, individuals can reduce their reliance on expensive medical treatments. This approach not only benefits personal health but also alleviates the burden on the healthcare system as a whole.
In my opinion, the most effective solution lies in a balanced approach that combines government action with individual responsibility. Governments should create policies and frameworks that make healthcare more accessible and affordable, such as investing in public health education and preventive care. Simultaneously, individuals must take charge of their well-being by making informed health choices and actively participating in preventive care programs.
In conclusion, addressing the rising cost of healthcare requires a collaborative effort between governments and individuals. While governments can implement systemic changes and regulations, individuals must also take responsibility for their health choices. This synergistic approach is essential for creating a sustainable and cost-effective healthcare system that benefits society as a whole.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The rising cost of healthcare is a big problem in many countries. Some people think the government should fix this, while others believe individuals need to take care of their own health better. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
Those who support government action say that healthcare is too expensive for many people. They think the government has the power to make big changes. For example, the government can make laws to control drug prices or create public health programs. This could help make healthcare cheaper for everyone.
On the other hand, some people say individuals should be more responsible for their health. They think that if people eat better, exercise more, and stop bad habits like smoking, they won’t need as much healthcare. This could save money for both individuals and the healthcare system.
I think both the government and individuals have important roles to play. The government should work on making healthcare more affordable and accessible. They can do this by improving public health education and creating better healthcare policies. At the same time, people should try to live healthier lives and take care of themselves.
In conclusion, I believe that both government action and individual responsibility are needed to solve the problem of rising healthcare costs. The government should create good policies, and people should take care of their health. By working together, we can make healthcare better and more affordable for everyone.
(Word count: 251)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
-
Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea.
-
Vocabulary: Use a range of vocabulary related to healthcare and government policies. For higher band scores, incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary and idiomatic expressions.
-
Grammar: Use a variety of sentence structures and tenses. For Band 8-9, demonstrate complex structures without errors.
-
Coherence and Cohesion: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. Ensure your essay flows logically from one point to the next.
-
Task Response: Address all parts of the question and provide a clear opinion in your conclusion.
Useful Vocabulary for This Topic
-
Healthcare system (noun) /ˈhelθkeə ˈsɪstəm/ – The organization of people, institutions, and resources that deliver health care services to meet the health needs of target populations.
-
Preventive care (noun) /prɪˈventɪv keə/ – Health care services that prevent illnesses or diseases before they occur.
-
Universal healthcare (noun) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈhelθkeə/ – A health care system that provides health care and financial protection to all residents of a particular country or region.
-
Pharmaceutical (adjective) /ˌfɑːməˈsuːtɪkl/ – Related to medicinal drugs, or their preparation, use, or sale.
-
Price gouging (noun) /praɪs ˈɡaʊdʒɪŋ/ – The practice of raising prices on certain types of goods and services to an unfair level, especially during a state of emergency.
-
Systemic changes (noun) /sɪˈstemɪk ˈtʃeɪndʒɪz/ – Fundamental changes that affect an entire system rather than just parts of it.
-
Burden (noun) /ˈbɜːdn/ – A duty or responsibility that causes worry, difficulty, or hard work.
-
Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
-
Synergistic (adjective) /ˌsɪnəˈdʒɪstɪk/ – Relating to the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
-
Accessible (adjective) /əkˈsesəbl/ – Able to be reached or entered; easily obtained or used.
Conclusion
The topic of rising healthcare costs is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of technology in reducing healthcare costs
- The impact of lifestyle choices on healthcare expenses
- The balance between public and private healthcare systems
Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your essay structure, and use appropriate vocabulary and grammar. Practice writing your own essay on this topic and consider sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning will help you improve your IELTS Writing skills effectively.