Healthcare spending has consistently been a hot topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing frequently in recent years. This theme connects closely with should universal healthcare be a basic human right and often appears in various forms. Based on analysis of past exams, here’s a commonly tested question:
Some people believe that governments should spend more money on healthcare than on other sectors. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their opinion on government spending priorities
- Compare healthcare with other sectors
- Support their position with relevant examples
- Consider multiple perspectives
Government healthcare spending priorities compared to other sectors
Band 8 Model Answer
Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that demonstrates excellent language use and coherent argumentation:
While some argue that healthcare should receive the lion’s share of government budgets, I partially agree with this view as healthcare needs must be balanced against other crucial sectors. This essay will explore why healthcare deserves substantial funding while explaining why other areas cannot be neglected.
Healthcare undoubtedly requires significant government investment for several compelling reasons. Firstly, as discussed in studies about the impact of population growth on healthcare, aging populations and increasing life expectancy create growing demands on medical services. Additionally, modern medical technologies and treatments are becoming increasingly expensive, necessitating substantial financial support to maintain quality healthcare services.
However, exclusively prioritizing healthcare spending could be detrimental to national development. Education, for instance, plays a crucial role in preventing health issues through better awareness and lifestyle choices. Similarly, infrastructure development indirectly impacts public health by providing better sanitation and living conditions. The question of Should free healthcare be provided to everyone? must be considered alongside other essential public services.
In my view, governments should adopt a balanced approach. While healthcare deserves substantial funding, it should be part of a comprehensive spending strategy that considers all sectors’ interconnected nature. The key lies in efficient resource allocation rather than overemphasizing one sector at others’ expense.
Band 6.5 Model Answer
Here’s a mid-range sample demonstrating good but less sophisticated language and argumentation:
I believe that healthcare spending is very important but should not overshadow other government responsibilities. This essay will discuss both sides of this issue.
The main reason for increasing healthcare spending is that it directly affects people’s lives. Many countries are facing problems with should there be universal basic healthcare, especially for poor people. Also, hospitals need modern equipment and trained doctors, which costs a lot of money.
However, other sectors also need money. Education is important because it helps people get better jobs. Transport and infrastructure help the economy grow. If governments only focus on healthcare, these areas might suffer.
In conclusion, while healthcare is very important, governments should try to balance their spending across different sectors. This will help create a better society for everyone.
Key Vocabulary
- Lion’s share (n) /ˈlaɪ.ənz ʃeər/ – the largest part of something
- Detrimental (adj) /ˌdet.rɪˈmen.təl/ – causing harm or damage
- Sanitation (n) /ˌsæn.ɪˈteɪ.ʃən/ – public health conditions
- Comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒm.prɪˈhen.sɪv/ – complete, including everything
- Allocation (n) /ˌæl.əˈkeɪ.ʃən/ – the act of distributing something
Practice Suggestions
Try writing your own essay on these related topics:
- Should healthcare be completely free for all citizens?
- Is private healthcare better than public healthcare?
- Should governments focus more on preventive healthcare?
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow learners.
