Universal healthcare and its impact on global health security has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing roughly 3-4 times annually in recent years. This topic’s relevance has intensified since the COVID-19 pandemic, making it highly likely to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a common question format that has appeared in recent IELTS examinations.
Universal healthcare system protecting global health security
Task Analysis and Sample Question
Some people believe that universal healthcare is essential for maintaining global health security. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on universal healthcare’s role in global health security
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Consider both local and international perspectives
- Demonstrate understanding of healthcare systems and global health challenges
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Similar to the effects of economic policies on social welfare, universal healthcare plays a crucial role in maintaining global health security. I strongly agree that it is essential, as it provides comprehensive protection against health threats while ensuring equitable access to medical care.
Universal healthcare systems significantly enhance global disease surveillance and response capabilities. When everyone has access to healthcare, infectious diseases can be detected and contained more quickly, preventing their spread across borders. For instance, countries with robust universal healthcare systems like South Korea demonstrated superior pandemic response during COVID-19, effectively controlling outbreaks through comprehensive testing and treatment.
Furthermore, importance of saving for future medical expenses becomes less critical when universal healthcare is implemented, allowing resources to be directed toward strengthening health infrastructure. This creates resilient health systems capable of handling both routine medical care and emergency situations. For example, Taiwan’s universal healthcare system enabled rapid mobilization of resources during health crises while maintaining regular healthcare services.
Universal healthcare also promotes global health equity and reduces health disparities between nations. When all countries implement comprehensive healthcare systems, it creates a more robust global health network. This collaborative approach, similar to the effects of climate change on the global economy, requires international cooperation and shared responsibility.
In conclusion, universal healthcare is undeniably crucial for global health security, as it strengthens disease surveillance, enables effective resource allocation, and promotes international health equity.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
I agree that universal healthcare is important for global health security. This system helps protect people’s health and prevents the spread of diseases between countries.
The main advantage of universal healthcare is that everyone can get medical treatment when they need it. This means sick people can see doctors quickly and get proper treatment. For example, in many Asian countries with universal healthcare, people don’t wait long to get medical help, which stops diseases from spreading.
Also, when countries have good healthcare systems, they can work together better to fight global health problems. During COVID-19, we saw that countries with strong healthcare systems could help other nations by sharing information and resources. This shows how universal healthcare helps global health security.
However, some problems exist with universal healthcare. It costs a lot of money, and some countries might not be able to afford it. Also, healthcare quality might not be the same everywhere.
In conclusion, I believe universal healthcare is very important for keeping everyone healthy and safe from global health threats, even though it has some challenges.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Academic tone throughout
- Precise use of topic-specific vocabulary
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis:
- Clear but simpler language
- Basic organizational structure
- Some examples provided but less detailed
- More general statements
- Limited range of complex structures
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Global health security (n) /ˈɡləʊbəl helθ sɪˈkjʊərəti/ – worldwide protection against health threats
- Surveillance (n) /səˈveɪləns/ – systematic monitoring of health data
- Resilient (adj) /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – able to withstand difficulties
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical systems of a country
- Comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete; including all aspects
- Equitable (adj) /ˈekwɪtəbl/ – fair and impartial
- Mobilization (n) /ˌməʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – organizing resources for a purpose
- Disparities (n) /dɪˈspærəti/ – differences in access or outcome
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Consider also exploring related topics like should universal basic income be implemented worldwide, as these themes often intersect in IELTS essays.
