Until the end of 2016, the medical deduction for those who itemize will remain based on the amount that exceeds 7.5% of AGI if you have turned 65. It is now 10% if you are under 65.
With the higher and higher cost of premiums, increased co-pays on prescriptions, qualified long term care premiums, dental costs, glasses, etc. you can reach a pretty big number.
For many of us, the medical deduction was something we never needed to consider because while we were working and had employer insurance, medical expenses never exceeded that 7.5% of AGI. But constantly rising costs coupled with a change in AGI because we are now retired can make it worth at least getting a big envelope to shove receipts into while hoping you don't need it but being ready if you do.
Being aware of how medical expenditures are adding up might become another factor in a decision about whether or not to tap an IRA.
I know you probably already know this if you itemize. And I know I am not an accountant and you should talk to one if you are interested in learning more about the medical deduction. But I am citing my source with a link to the IRS site, Topic 502, that will tell you more if you want to know. (The list of what expenses can qualify is actually fairly long.)
https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc502.html
Boomer