The topic of healthcare challenges in developing countries frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in problem-solution or discussion essays. Based on analysis of past exams and impact of population growth on healthcare, this theme has appeared in various forms at least 3-4 times annually since 2019.
Selected Task 2 Question
Many developing countries face significant challenges in providing adequate healthcare services to their populations. What are the main problems and what measures can governments take to address these issues?
Question Analysis
This question requires:
- Identifying major healthcare challenges in developing nations
- Proposing government solutions
- Following a clear problem-solution structure
- Supporting arguments with relevant examples
Model Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
Developing nations encounter numerous obstacles in delivering proper healthcare services, similar to challenges seen in impact of telemedicine on rural healthcare. This essay will examine the key issues and suggest potential government interventions.
The primary challenges are insufficient infrastructure and resource limitations. Many developing countries lack adequate medical facilities, especially in rural areas, while existing hospitals are often overcrowded and poorly equipped. Additionally, there is a severe shortage of qualified healthcare professionals, as many doctors and nurses migrate to developed nations seeking better opportunities.
To address these problems, governments can implement several measures. Firstly, increasing healthcare budgets and prioritizing infrastructure development is crucial. This could involve constructing new hospitals and upgrading existing facilities with modern equipment. Secondly, governments should focus on healthcare workforce development through improved medical education programs and attractive compensation packages to retain skilled professionals.
Furthermore, implementing universal healthcare coverage systems can ensure accessibility for all citizens. Countries like Thailand have successfully introduced such programs, making healthcare services affordable for the general population. Governments can also partner with international organizations and NGOs to access additional resources and expertise.
In conclusion, while developing nations face significant healthcare challenges, strategic government interventions focusing on infrastructure, workforce development, and universal coverage can substantially improve healthcare delivery.
Model Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Healthcare in developing countries has many problems. In this essay, I will discuss these problems and some solutions that governments can use.
The biggest problem is that there isn’t enough money for healthcare. Many hospitals don’t have good equipment and medicines. Also, there aren’t enough doctors and nurses because they go to rich countries to work. Poor people in villages cannot go to hospitals because they are too far away or too expensive.
I think governments should do several things to help. They should spend more money on healthcare and build more hospitals. They can also give better salaries to doctors and nurses so they stay in their country. Some countries like India have made special programs to help poor people get free treatment.
Another solution is to work with other countries and organizations to get help. They can provide money, equipment, and training for medical staff. This can help improve healthcare services.
In conclusion, developing countries have many healthcare problems, but governments can solve them by spending more money and getting help from other countries.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Cohesion and Coherence: Excellent paragraph structure with clear progression
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary (“insufficient infrastructure”, “universal healthcare coverage”)
- Task Response: Comprehensive coverage of both problems and solutions
- Grammar: Complex sentence structures with minimal errors
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Cohesion and Coherence: Basic paragraph organization
- Lexical Resource: Simple but appropriate vocabulary
- Task Response: Addresses main points but lacks depth
- Grammar: Mostly simple sentences with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – basic physical systems of a country
- universal healthcare coverage (n) /juːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈhelθkeər ˈkʌvərɪdʒ/ – healthcare system for all citizens
- overcrowded (adj) /əʊvəˈkraʊdɪd/ – filled with too many people
- compensation package (n) /kɒmpənˈseɪʃn ˈpækɪdʒ/ – salary and benefits offered
- accessibility (n) /əksesəˈbɪləti/ – ability to be reached or obtained
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- Role of private sector in healthcare improvement
- Impact of technology on healthcare delivery
- Healthcare education in developing nations
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.