Healthcare system effectiveness is a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately every 3-4 months in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam papers, this topic commonly appears in discussion or opinion-based questions. Let’s examine one frequently tested question format:
Some people believe that a country’s healthcare system should be free and funded by the government, while others think citizens should pay for their own healthcare. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Essay Analysis
This question requires:
- Discussion of both viewpoints on healthcare funding
- Clear personal stance
- Relevant examples and supporting arguments
- Balanced analysis of pros and cons
Sample Essays
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
The debate over whether healthcare should be state-funded or privately financed is a crucial policy issue facing many nations today. While both approaches have their merits, I firmly believe that a predominantly government-funded system better serves society’s needs.
Those who advocate for private healthcare argue that it promotes better quality service through competition and reduces the tax burden on citizens. When people pay directly for medical services, healthcare providers are incentivized to improve their facilities and treatment quality to attract patients. Additionally, private systems typically have shorter waiting times for non-emergency procedures and offer more specialized treatment options.
However, I support government-funded healthcare for several compelling reasons. Firstly, universal access to healthcare is fundamental to social equality and human dignity. A public system ensures that all citizens, regardless of their financial status, can receive necessary medical treatment. Moreover, preventive care becomes more accessible under public healthcare, leading to better overall public health outcomes and reduced long-term costs. Countries like Sweden and Canada demonstrate how well-managed public healthcare systems can provide high-quality care while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Furthermore, public healthcare systems often prove more cost-effective at a national level. Government bargaining power can negotiate better prices for medications and medical equipment, while administrative costs are typically lower than in fragmented private systems. The elimination of profit motives also means resources are allocated based on medical need rather than financial considerations.
In conclusion, while private healthcare has certain advantages, a government-funded system better ensures universal access, promotes preventive care, and offers greater economic efficiency. The ideal approach might involve a predominantly public system with optional private supplements, combining the benefits of both models.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Healthcare funding is an important topic in many countries. Some people think it should be free and paid by government, while others believe individuals should pay themselves. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one side, private healthcare has some good points. When people pay for their own treatment, they might be more careful about their health and not waste medical resources. Also, private hospitals often have better equipment and shorter waiting times because they have more money from patient fees.
However, I think government-funded healthcare is better. Many people cannot afford expensive medical treatment, so they might not get help when they are sick if healthcare is private. This is very dangerous for society. Also, public healthcare helps everyone get basic health services like vaccinations and check-ups, which stops diseases from spreading.
In my country, some people cannot see doctors because they are too expensive. This creates big problems for poor families. If the government paid for healthcare, everyone would be healthier and happier. Even though taxes might increase, I think it is worth it for society.
In conclusion, while private healthcare has some benefits, I believe government-funded healthcare is better for society. It helps everyone get medical treatment and creates a healthier population.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Clear position and sophisticated arguments
- Excellent paragraph organization
- Advanced vocabulary and complex structures
- Cohesive devices used effectively
- Relevant examples and thorough analysis
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Basic but clear structure
- Limited range of vocabulary
- Simple but accurate grammar
- Some repetition in ideas
- Basic examples provided
Key Vocabulary
- universal access (n) /juːnɪˈvɜːsl ækses/ – complete availability to all
- preventive care (n) /prɪˈventɪv keə/ – healthcare focused on prevention
- fiscal responsibility (n) /ˈfɪskəl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – financial accountability
- bargaining power (n) /ˈbɑːɡənɪŋ paʊə/ – ability to negotiate effectively
- fragmented (adj) /ˈfræɡmentɪd/ – divided into parts
- administrative costs (n) /ədˈmɪnɪstrətɪv kɒsts/ – management expenses
- incentivized (v) /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪzd/ – motivated by rewards
For practice, try writing your own essay about healthcare systems in different countries. Share your response in the comments for feedback and discussion.