Band 7+: Some people think that good health is very important to every person, so medical service should not be run by profit-making companies. Do the advantages of private health care outweigh the disadvantages?

The idea of private companies providing medical and healthcare services is gaining traction. While this has admittedly some drawbacks, I would contend that these are overshadowed by its benefits.

Granted, private healthcare could be disadvantageous to some extent. One legitimate concern is that healthcare services are not accessible to every patient due to their exorbitant cost. This has led to a two-tier system, where the wealthy enjoy superior healthcare while the less affluent struggle to afford basic medical care. The problem is worth considering in the US, where healthcare organizations run by companies are more prevalent, residents with limited financial resources have to stay at home and do not visit the hospital until the illness becomes more serious. Another setback could be the perception of inequality among citizens that healthcare and good health is a privilege for the rich, not a fundamental need of humans. If most hospitals are run by the government, people would believe that it is right for them to receive good healthcare services and the same treatment as more well-off patients regardless of their socio-economic background.

Despite the aforementioned demerits, I am convinced that this development has come with more pronounced advantages. Chief among these is the reduction of workload and pressure put on public healthcare. The development of public healthcare can be limited in some nations as little resources and funding are diverted to hospitalization by the government. Because of that, the thriving growth of medical services run by companies could help provide enough service for all the nationals. Another merit is that top-quality service fulfills the demand of those in need. Concerning those who could pursue these services, they would like to experience more advanced equipment, a smaller ratio of doctor-to-patient, a shorter waiting list of appointments, or more flexible visiting hours. And I believe that wherever there is a demand, there should be a supply. As a certain number of patients rely on private healthcare, less privileged individuals can receive better healthcare in public sectors, fostering improved healthcare access for all.

In conclusion, despite certain disadvantages of private medical services, I am of the opinion that its benefits are far more pronounced.