Why aren't medical bills apart of a standard deduction on taxes?

Question

With people not being able to afford health care, wouldn't it make sense instead of itemizing it which not many poor people do, and instead allow it as an additon to the standard deduction, like child care for instance? Why wouldn't this work?

Answer 1

The standard deduction ALREADY includes an amount for health care.  That's the whole point.

If you spend an excessive amount, THEN you itemize.

The IRS could get rid of the standard deduction and then everybody can itemize and claim their expenses...but for 70% of us, the tax bill would go up, not down.

Answer 2

It isn't an ADDITION to the standard deduction since that's part of what the standard deduction is for.  Since child care is NOT a part of the standard deduction, congress decided to allow a separate credit for it.