The topic of community-based healthcare frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in questions about social issues and public health. Based on analysis of past exams and The role of healthcare in society, this theme has appeared in various forms over the last 5 years and remains highly relevant for future tests.
Students discussing community healthcare benefits in IELTS preparation class
Task Analysis
Some people believe that healthcare should be centralized in large hospitals in cities, while others think community-based healthcare centers in local areas are more beneficial. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine advantages of both centralized and The benefits of community-based healthcare systems
- Present a balanced discussion
- Express and justify a personal view
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The debate between centralized hospital systems and The benefits of community-based health initiatives represents a crucial healthcare policy decision. While both approaches have merit, I believe a balanced combination with emphasis on community healthcare offers the most effective solution.
Proponents of centralized hospitals argue that these institutions provide several advantages. Large urban hospitals can house sophisticated medical equipment and attract highly specialized professionals, making them ideal for treating complex conditions. Furthermore, centralization enables economies of scale, potentially reducing operational costs and allowing for more efficient resource allocation.
However, community-based healthcare centers offer compelling benefits. These facilities provide more accessible and immediate care to local populations, particularly beneficial for elderly patients and those in remote areas. They also foster stronger doctor-patient relationships and better understanding of local health needs. Additionally, community centers excel at preventive care and health education, potentially reducing the burden on larger hospitals.
In my view, while centralized hospitals are essential for specialized care, community healthcare centers play a vital role in creating a more accessible and efficient healthcare system. The ideal approach would be to develop strong networks of community centers supported by centralized hospitals, ensuring comprehensive healthcare delivery at all levels.
Community healthcare center providing essential medical services
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Healthcare delivery systems are an important topic in many countries. Some people think big hospitals in cities are better, while others prefer local community healthcare centers. This essay will discuss both views.
City hospitals have some good points. They have many doctors and expensive machines that can help sick people. Also, doctors in big hospitals have more experience with serious illnesses. For example, in India, many people go to city hospitals for special treatments.
On the other hand, benefits of community outreach programs show that local healthcare centers are also important. These centers are closer to people’s homes, which is good for old people and children. They also know local health problems better. In my country, community centers help many people who cannot travel to big cities.
I think both types of healthcare are necessary. Big hospitals can treat serious problems, while community centers can help with daily healthcare needs. The best system would use both types together.
Key Vocabulary
- Centralization (n) /ˌsɛntrəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the concentration of control of an activity or organization under a single authority
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – basic physical and organizational structures needed for operation
- Accessibility (n) /əkˌsesəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to be reached or entered
- Preventive care (n) /prɪˈventɪv keə/ – healthcare that prevents illness or disease
- Resource allocation (n) /rɪˈsɔːs ˌæləˈkeɪʃən/ – the distribution of available resources
- Economies of scale (n) /ɪˈkɒnəmiz əv skeɪl/ – cost advantages obtained due to scale of operation
Conclusion
This topic remains crucial in IELTS Writing Task 2. Practice writing about similar themes like healthcare privatization, medical technology access, or rural healthcare challenges. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.
