Universal healthcare is a topic of significant importance in modern society, often appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This subject has been featured in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a relevant topic in future tests. Its frequency in IELTS exams can be attributed to its global relevance and the ongoing debates surrounding healthcare systems worldwide.
Let’s examine a sample question that has appeared in previous IELTS exams:
Some people believe that healthcare should be free for everyone, while others think that people should pay for their own healthcare. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for free universal healthcare
- Explore reasons why individuals should pay for their own healthcare
- Present and justify their personal opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 7-8)
Healthcare is a fundamental human right, and its accessibility has been a topic of heated debate globally. While some advocate for free universal healthcare, others argue that individuals should be responsible for their own medical expenses. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of free healthcare argue that it ensures equal access to medical services for all citizens, regardless of their financial status. This approach can lead to a healthier population overall, as people are more likely to seek preventive care and early treatment when cost is not a barrier. Moreover, a healthier workforce contributes to increased productivity and economic growth. Countries like Canada and the United Kingdom have successfully implemented universal healthcare systems, demonstrating their feasibility and benefits.
On the other hand, those who support individual payment for healthcare contend that it promotes personal responsibility and reduces the burden on government budgets. They argue that when people pay for their own medical care, they are more likely to make healthier lifestyle choices and use healthcare services judiciously. Additionally, a privatized system may lead to increased competition among healthcare providers, potentially resulting in improved quality of care and technological advancements.
In my opinion, a hybrid system that combines elements of both approaches would be most beneficial. While basic healthcare services should be provided free of charge to ensure that everyone has access to essential medical care, optional treatments and premium services could be offered on a paid basis. This approach would maintain the principles of universal access while also encouraging personal responsibility and allowing for some market-driven improvements in the healthcare sector.
In conclusion, the debate over healthcare funding is complex and multifaceted. While both free and paid healthcare systems have their merits, a balanced approach that prioritizes universal access to essential services while allowing for some privatization could offer the best solution for society as a whole.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Healthcare is an important issue that affects everyone. Some people think it should be free for all, while others believe we should pay for it ourselves. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
Free healthcare has many benefits. It means everyone can see a doctor when they are sick, even if they don’t have much money. This can help prevent serious illnesses and keep the whole population healthier. Also, when people don’t have to worry about medical bills, they might be happier and more productive at work. Countries like Canada have shown that free healthcare can work well.
However, there are reasons why some think we should pay for our own healthcare. When people pay, they might be more careful about their health and not waste medical resources. It could also reduce government spending and taxes. Private healthcare might lead to better services because hospitals would compete for patients.
In my view, a mix of both systems could be the best solution. Basic healthcare should be free so everyone can get help when they need it. But people could pay extra for special treatments or faster service if they want to. This way, everyone gets basic care, but there’s still room for improvement and choice.
To sum up, healthcare is a difficult issue with good points on both sides. I think a system that gives everyone access to basic care but also allows some private options could work well for most countries.
(Word count: 253)
Key Points to Consider When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing different viewpoints, and a conclusion. This organization is crucial for achieving a higher band score.
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Vocabulary: The Band 7-8 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases, such as “heated debate,” “fundamental human right,” and “multifaceted.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively communicates the ideas.
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Grammar: The higher-band essay demonstrates a wider range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and passive voice. The lower-band essay uses simpler structures but maintains grammatical accuracy.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the Band 7-8 essay shows more sophisticated use of cohesive devices.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 7-8 essay provides more detailed explanations and examples.
Vocabulary to Remember
- Universal healthcare (noun) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈhelθkeə/ – A system where all citizens receive health coverage and financial protection
- Accessibility (noun) /əkˌsesəˈbɪləti/ – The quality of being able to be reached or entered
- Preventive care (noun) /prɪˈventɪv keə/ – Health care services that prevent illness or disease
- Feasibility (noun) /ˌfiːzəˈbɪləti/ – The state or degree of being easily or conveniently done
- Judiciously (adverb) /dʒuːˈdɪʃəsli/ – With good judgment or sense
- Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features
- Privatization (noun) /ˌpraɪvətaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – The transfer of a business or industry from public to private ownership and control
- Socioeconomic (adjective) /ˌsəʊʃioʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – Relating to or concerned with the interaction of social and economic factors
Conclusion
The topic of universal healthcare is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government in providing healthcare
- The impact of healthcare costs on society
- The pros and cons of privatized healthcare systems
- The relationship between healthcare access and social equality
Remember to analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide relevant examples to support your arguments. By doing so, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any healthcare-related question in your IELTS Writing Task 2.
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