Oft times there is a clear difference between wants and needs.  However, this distinction can be far less clear in some situations – such as in healthcare.  According to Brian W. Rotenberg, “Doctors need to start openly and directly considering the concept of medical necessity when talking with patients about tests or procedures. Patients, in turn, need to keep in mind that their healthcare is not “free,” and that many of their health-related complaints likely represent wants, rather than needs.”  Read the full article here.