The topic of universal healthcare has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing frequently in recent years. Similar to Is healthcare system in your country effective?, this subject tests candidates’ ability to analyze complex social policies. Let’s examine some sample essays addressing this important topic.
Some people think that healthcare should be free and funded by the government. Others believe that individuals should pay for their own healthcare. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine arguments for government-funded healthcare
- Consider perspectives supporting private healthcare
- Present and justify their personal opinion
Band 9 Sample Essay
The debate over whether healthcare should be universally free or privately funded remains contentious in many countries. While both approaches have merit, I believe a hybrid system combining government funding with some private options offers the most effective solution.
Government-funded healthcare presents several compelling advantages. Firstly, it ensures equal access to medical services regardless of socioeconomic status, preventing situations where how to address the challenges of social inequality impact health outcomes. Additionally, preventive care becomes more accessible, reducing long-term healthcare costs and improving public health outcomes. For example, countries like Sweden demonstrate how universal healthcare can lead to better overall population health metrics.
However, proponents of private healthcare raise valid concerns. Private funding can drive innovation and efficiency through market competition, potentially leading to better service quality and reduced waiting times. Furthermore, it may encourage personal responsibility for health maintenance and lifestyle choices. The United States’ private system, despite its flaws, has contributed significantly to medical research and technological advancement.
In my view, the optimal approach combines both systems. A government-funded basic healthcare package could ensure essential medical services for all citizens, while allowing private options for those seeking additional services. This model, similar to how to address income inequality through government policies, creates a balanced system that protects public health while fostering innovation.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Healthcare funding is an important topic in many countries today. There are different opinions about whether it should be free or paid by people themselves. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Free healthcare has some good points. When the government pays for healthcare, poor people can get treatment when they are sick. This is important because everyone should have the right to be healthy. Also, when healthcare is free, more people go to doctors early, which stops big health problems later.
But private healthcare also has advantages. When people pay for their own treatment, they might be more careful about their health. Also, private hospitals often have better equipment and shorter waiting times. Some people think this makes the service better.
In my opinion, both systems can work together. The government should provide basic healthcare for everyone, but people can pay extra for special treatments if they want. This way, everyone can get basic medical care, but there are also choices for those who want more.
Key Vocabulary
- contentious (adj.) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing disagreement or debate
- socioeconomic (adj.) /ˌsoʊsioʊˌekəˈnɑːmɪk/ – relating to social and economic factors
- preventive care (n.) /prɪˈventɪv keər/ – healthcare focused on preventing illness
- innovation (n.) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – new methods or ideas
- hybrid system (n.) /ˈhaɪbrɪd ˈsɪstəm/ – combination of different systems
- implementation (n.) /ˌɪmpləmenˈteɪʃn/ – the process of putting a plan into action
For practice, try writing your own essay addressing how universal healthcare might affect importance of financial inclusion for economic development. Share your response in the comments for feedback and discussion.