IELTS Writing Task 2 – Band 8.0 Sample

Advances in digital technology mean that many medical consultations may soon take place by video call rather than in person. I believe this would be a positive change overall, although face-to-face appointments must remain available when they are medically necessary.

The main advantage of online consultations is convenience and accessibility. Patients no longer need to take time off work, travel long distances or sit in crowded waiting rooms. This is especially valuable for people in remote rural areas, the elderly and those with limited mobility. For instance, a farmer living hours from the nearest city could seek advice from a specialist within minutes.

In addition, video consultations could make health systems more efficient. Doctors can see more patients each day, and routine matters such as repeat prescriptions or test results can be handled quickly online. Keeping people with infectious diseases at home also reduces the spread of illness in clinics, as the COVID-19 pandemic clearly showed.

Nevertheless, remote medicine has clear limitations. A doctor cannot perform a physical examination or pick up on subtle signs through a screen, so some conditions might be misdiagnosed. For example, a skin rash or a lump may look harmless on camera but require closer inspection in person. Moreover, older or poorer patients who lack reliable internet access or digital skills could be left at a disadvantage. These risks mean that video calls should complement rather than replace traditional care.

In conclusion, I largely agree that a shift towards video consultations is a good thing, as it saves time and widens access to healthcare. However, in-person appointments must remain an option for complex cases and for patients who cannot use the technology.