The topic of universal healthcare and its effects on life expectancy is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this subject appears frequently in various forms, particularly in questions about government spending priorities and public health policies. Let’s examine one common question type and explore sample essays across different band scores.
Question Analysis
Some people believe that governments should make healthcare services free for all citizens. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on free universal healthcare
- Provide relevant supporting arguments
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Draw logical conclusions
Universal healthcare debate showing modern hospital facilities
Band 8 Sample Essay
Much like the role of preventive healthcare in reducing medical costs, the provision of free healthcare services by governments is a crucial policy decision that significantly impacts public health outcomes. While this approach has both advantages and challenges, I strongly agree that healthcare should be universally accessible without cost to citizens.
The primary argument supporting free healthcare is its direct correlation with improved public health outcomes. When medical services are provided without charge, citizens are more likely to seek preventive care and early treatment, leading to better health outcomes and increased life expectancy. Moreover, universal healthcare ensures that vulnerable populations, including the elderly and low-income families, receive necessary medical attention without financial barriers.
Similar to how impact of income inequality on life expectancy affects society, free healthcare helps reduce health disparities across different socioeconomic groups. This system promotes social equality and prevents situations where individuals must choose between medical treatment and other essential needs. Furthermore, a healthier population contributes to increased productivity and economic growth, ultimately benefiting the entire nation.
However, implementing free healthcare requires substantial government funding and efficient management. While critics argue that this could strain public resources, the long-term benefits of a healthy population often outweigh the initial investment. Many successful examples, such as the healthcare systems in Nordic countries, demonstrate that free healthcare can be both sustainable and effective.
In conclusion, despite the challenges, providing free healthcare services is crucial for creating a healthier, more equitable society. Governments should prioritize this investment in their citizens’ well-being.
Healthcare professionals consulting with patient in modern clinic
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
The question of whether governments should provide free healthcare services is an important topic in many countries today. In my opinion, I agree that healthcare should be free for everyone, but there are some problems that need to be thought about.
The main reason why free healthcare is good is because it helps everyone stay healthy. When Should governments prioritize healthcare spending over other areas, poor people can go to the doctor without worrying about money. This means they can get treatment early before their health problems become worse. Also, free healthcare helps old people and children who need lots of medical care.
Another benefit is that free healthcare makes society more fair. Rich people and poor people can get the same medical treatment. This is important because everyone deserves to be healthy, not just people with money. Also, when everyone is healthy, they can work better and help the country’s economy grow.
However, there are some problems with free healthcare. It costs the government a lot of money, which means they might need to increase taxes. Also, sometimes free healthcare services can be slow because many people use them. But these problems can be solved with good planning and management.
In conclusion, I think governments should make healthcare free for everyone because the benefits are more important than the problems. It helps create a better and fairer society where everyone can be healthy.
Key Vocabulary
- Universal healthcare (n) /juːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈhelθkeə/ – healthcare system providing coverage to all citizens
- Socioeconomic (adj) /ˌsəʊsɪəʊˌekəˈnɒmɪk/ – relating to social and economic factors
- Disparities (n) /dɪˈspærɪtiz/ – differences, especially unfair ones
- Preventive care (n) /prɪˈventɪv keə/ – healthcare focused on preventing illness
- Sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained long-term
- Equitable (adj) /ˈekwɪtəbl/ – fair and impartial
- Implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – the process of putting a plan into action
Practice Exercise
Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Consider these alternative questions for practice:
- Should healthcare be completely privatized?
- Is it the government’s responsibility to ensure citizens’ health?
- How can countries balance healthcare costs with quality of service?
Remember to maintain clear structure, provide relevant examples, and use appropriate vocabulary in your practice essays.
