Universal basic healthcare is a topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on past exam trends and current global discussions, it’s likely to remain a popular subject in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that governments should provide universal basic healthcare for all citizens, while others think individuals should be responsible for their own health and medical costs. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question addresses a critical debate in many countries regarding healthcare policies and individual responsibilities. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
The question asks you to:
- Discuss the view that governments should provide universal basic healthcare
- Discuss the opposing view that individuals should be responsible for their health costs
- Give your own opinion on the matter
To effectively answer this question, you need to:
- Explain both viewpoints clearly
- Provide reasons and examples to support each view
- State your own opinion and justify it
- Use a clear essay structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Universal healthcare is a contentious issue in many countries, with some advocating for government-provided basic healthcare for all citizens, while others argue for individual responsibility in medical costs. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on the matter.
Proponents of universal basic healthcare argue that it is a fundamental human right and essential for societal well-being. They contend that government-funded healthcare ensures equal access to medical services, regardless of an individual’s financial status. This approach can lead to better overall public health outcomes, as preventive care becomes more accessible, potentially reducing the long-term burden on the healthcare system. Moreover, universal healthcare can provide a safety net for those facing unexpected medical emergencies, preventing financial ruin due to exorbitant medical bills.
On the other hand, those who support individual responsibility for healthcare costs argue that this approach promotes personal accountability and more efficient use of medical resources. They believe that when people are directly responsible for their health expenses, they are more likely to make healthier lifestyle choices and seek medical attention only when necessary, thus reducing the strain on the healthcare system. Furthermore, proponents of this view argue that private healthcare systems often lead to more innovation and higher quality services due to competition.
In my opinion, while personal responsibility in healthcare is important, a basic level of universal healthcare provided by the government is crucial for a just and healthy society. A hybrid system that offers essential medical services to all citizens while allowing for private healthcare options could strike a balance between ensuring basic care and promoting innovation. This approach would protect vulnerable populations from catastrophic health expenses while still encouraging individual responsibility and maintaining a competitive healthcare market.
In conclusion, both universal basic healthcare and individual responsibility have their merits. However, I believe that a balanced approach that prioritizes essential healthcare for all, while still allowing for personal choice and responsibility, is the most effective way to address this complex issue.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
The topic of who should pay for healthcare is very important in many countries today. Some people think the government should give free basic healthcare to everyone, but others believe individuals should pay for their own health costs. This essay will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
People who support universal basic healthcare say it is a human right. They think everyone should have access to medical care, even if they don’t have much money. This can help prevent serious health problems in society because more people can get check-ups and early treatment. Also, it stops people from going bankrupt because of high medical bills. For example, in countries like Canada and the UK, people don’t worry about paying for doctor visits or emergency care.
On the other hand, some people believe individuals should be responsible for their own health costs. They say this makes people take better care of their health and only use medical services when they really need them. It can also lead to better quality healthcare because private hospitals compete with each other. In countries like the USA, many people have private health insurance through their jobs.
In my opinion, I think a mix of both systems is best. The government should provide basic healthcare for everyone, especially for serious illnesses and emergencies. But people should also take some responsibility for their health, like paying small fees for doctor visits or lifestyle-related treatments. This way, everyone can get the care they need, but the system isn’t overused.
To conclude, while both views have good points, I believe a combined approach of government support and personal responsibility is the best way to handle healthcare costs.
Band 5-6 Sample Essay
Healthcare is a big problem in many countries. Some people think the government should give free healthcare to everyone. Other people think each person should pay for their own health costs. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
People who want free healthcare from the government say it is good for everyone. They think all people should be able to see a doctor when they are sick, even if they don’t have money. This can help stop big health problems in a country. Also, it helps people who get very sick and can’t pay big hospital bills. In some countries like England, people don’t pay to see a doctor or go to the hospital.
But some people think everyone should pay for their own health costs. They say this makes people take care of their health better. They also think private hospitals are better because they try to be the best to get more customers. In America, many people buy their own health insurance or get it from their job.
I think both ideas have good points. Maybe the best way is to have some free healthcare from the government, but also make people pay a little bit for some things. This way, everyone can get help when they are very sick, but people will also try to stay healthy.
In conclusion, I believe a mix of government healthcare and personal responsibility is the best way to solve this problem.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the response
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Organizes information logically with clear progression throughout
- Uses cohesion in such a way that it attracts no attention
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, though conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task with some evidence of style and flexibility
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information coherently and there is clear overall progression
- Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task
- Uses only a limited range of structures with only rare use of subordinate clauses
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
- Makes inadequate, inaccurate or over-use of cohesive devices
Key Vocabulary to Remember
-
Universal healthcare (noun) – /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈhelθkeə(r)/ – A healthcare system that provides health coverage to all residents of a particular country or region.
-
Contentious (adjective) – /kənˈtenʃəs/ – Causing or likely to cause disagreement or argument.
-
Exorbitant (adjective) – /ɪɡˈzɔːbɪtənt/ – Unreasonably high (in terms of price or amount).
-
Catastrophic (adjective) – /ˌkætəˈstrɒfɪk/ – Involving or causing sudden great damage or suffering.
-
Preventive care (noun) – /prɪˈventɪv keə(r)/ – Healthcare that focuses on preventing illness and disease rather than treating them after they occur.
-
Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – The introduction of new ideas, methods, or things.
-
Hybrid system (noun) – /ˈhaɪbrɪd ˈsɪstəm/ – A system that combines elements of two different approaches or systems.
-
Accountability (noun) – /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – The fact or condition of being accountable; responsibility.
-
Vulnerable (adjective) – /ˈvʌlnərəbl/ – Exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally.
-
Burden (noun) – /ˈbɜːdn/ – A duty or misfortune that causes hardship, worry, or difficulty.
In conclusion, the topic of universal basic healthcare is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Similar questions you might encounter could include:
- Should governments prioritize healthcare spending over other areas?
- Is it fair for countries with universal healthcare to limit access for non-citizens?
- How can developing countries implement effective healthcare systems with limited resources?
To improve your writing skills, try crafting your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section. This practice will help you refine your ideas and get comfortable with the essay structure required for IELTS Writing Task 2.
Should governments implement universal basic healthcare is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of various factors. While advantages of universal healthcare systems are significant, it’s important to balance these with individual responsibility and economic feasibility. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider exploring related topics such as should there be universal healthcare coverage worldwide or even should there be a universal minimum wage to broaden your understanding of global social policies. Remember, a well-rounded knowledge of current affairs and the ability to articulate your thoughts clearly are key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2.