Healthcare systems and their accessibility have been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 2-3 times annually over the past decade. Based on analysis of past exams, this topic typically emerges in Discussion or Opinion essays, particularly focusing on government responsibility and social welfare systems.
Let’s examine a recent IELTS question that exemplifies this topic:
Some people believe that healthcare should be free for everyone, while others think people should pay for their own healthcare. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This is a discussion + opinion type question requiring candidates to:
- Examine arguments for free universal healthcare
- Consider reasons for individual payment systems
- Present and justify their personal stance
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
Healthcare financing remains a contentious issue globally, with valid arguments both for universal coverage and pay-as-you-go systems. While both approaches have their merits, I firmly believe that a predominantly free healthcare system better serves society’s needs.
Proponents of free universal healthcare argue that it ensures equal access to medical services regardless of socioeconomic status. In countries like Canada and the UK, government-funded healthcare systems have successfully reduced health disparities and prevented medical bankruptcy. Moreover, when people don’t hesitate to seek early treatment due to cost concerns, preventive care becomes more effective, ultimately reducing the overall burden on the healthcare system.
However, advocates of private healthcare systems contend that payment-based models promote efficiency and innovation. They argue that market competition drives service quality improvements and technological advancement. Additionally, when people pay directly for services, they may be more conscious about their health choices and avoid unnecessary medical visits.
In my view, while pay-as-you-go systems have certain advantages, free universal healthcare better serves society’s fundamental needs. The primary purpose of healthcare is to maintain public health and save lives, not generate profit. A hybrid system could be optimal, where essential services are free while optional treatments remain private. This approach ensures basic healthcare access while maintaining some market incentives for innovation.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
The debate about whether healthcare should be free or paid is important in many countries. There are different opinions about this issue, and I will discuss both sides.
Free healthcare has many benefits. First, poor people can get medical treatment when they are sick. In many countries like India, some people cannot afford to pay hospital bills, so free healthcare helps them. Also, when healthcare is free, people go to the doctor early before their illness becomes serious.
On the other hand, some people think everyone should pay for their own healthcare. They say this makes the service better because hospitals need to compete for patients. Also, when people pay, they don’t waste medical services or go to the doctor for small problems.
In my opinion, I think healthcare should be free for everyone. This is because health is very important, and nobody should be denied medical treatment because they are poor. However, maybe some special treatments can be paid for by patients who want them.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “contentious,” “socioeconomic status,” “medical bankruptcy”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization with coherent progression
- Balanced discussion with well-developed arguments
- Sophisticated cohesive devices
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Adequate organization
- Limited range of discussion points
- Simple linking words
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Universal healthcare (n) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈhelθkeə/ – healthcare system covering all citizens
- Socioeconomic (adj) /ˌsəʊsioʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – relating to social and economic factors
- Medical bankruptcy (n) /ˈmedɪkl ˈbæŋkrʌptsi/ – bankruptcy due to medical expenses
- Preventive care (n) /prɪˈventɪv keə/ – healthcare focused on prevention
- Market competition (n) /ˈmɑːkɪt ˌkɒmpəˈtɪʃn/ – rivalry between businesses in the market
- Healthcare disparity (n) /ˈhelθkeə dɪˈspærəti/ – inequality in healthcare access
- Hybrid system (n) /ˈhaɪbrɪd ˈsɪstəm/ – system combining multiple approaches
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- Role of private insurance in healthcare
- Government responsibility in public health
- Healthcare access in developing countries
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion!