DISCLAIMER
The ECS3704 assignment 4 is a generic document that will assist students in
preparing their own customised assignment. Therefore, students can use all the
information provided but paraphrase in order to meet their personal needs. The
structure and the contect is all in line with the requirements of the module.
Introduction
The debate over whether healthcare should be universally free is a complex and
contentious issue. On one hand, proponents argue that access to healthcare is a
fundamental human right and should be available to all regardless of socioeconomic
status. On the other hand, opponents raise concerns about the feasibility and
sustainability of providing free healthcare and the potential drawbacks of government
intervention in healthcare provision. In this essay, I will explore both sides of the
argument, considering the characteristics of private and public goods, as well as the
effects of financing healthcare through taxes.
Characteristics of Private and Public Goods:
To understand the debate surrounding free healthcare, it is essential to differentiate
between private and public goods. Private goods are characterized by rivalry and
excludability, meaning that consumption by one individual reduces the amount
available for others, and access can be restricted to those who pay for it (Yaya, 2020).
Healthcare services traditionally fall under the category of private goods when
provided by private institutions and paid for by individuals or their insurers.
Public goods, on the other hand, are non-rivalrous and non-excludable. This means
that consumption by one individual does not diminish the availability of the good for
others, and it is difficult to exclude individuals from benefiting from the good once it is
provided (Birhane, 2020). Universal healthcare can be seen as a public good when
provided by the government, as access is not restricted based on ability to pay, and
everyone in society can potentially benefit from a healthier population.
Arguments For Free Healthcare:
Promotion of Public Health: Providing free healthcare ensures that everyone has
access to essential medical services, leading to better overall public health outcomes.
By removing financial barriers, individuals are more likely to seek timely medical
attention, reducing the spread of communicable diseases and preventing the
escalation of health conditions.
Economic Efficiency: Universal healthcare can lead to cost savings in the long run by
reducing administrative overheads associated with private insurance systems. A
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