Deductable Medical Travel Expenses

I have multiple sclerosis, a chronic, progressive, incurable disease.  My nuerologist has recommended a facility out of state where I get outpatient physical therapy by highly trained MS specialists.  I have to fly to this out of state location, rent a car and get a place to stay. I also have to get meals while I am there. There are no inpatient accommodations at this facility.  This is the ONLY place in the US that provides this specialized physical therapy.  Last year one stay was 6 weeks. I rented an air B&B for one month and had to stay at a hotel for the remaining time. My requirements were clean and safe accommodations, nothing fancy. I used all discounts available to me.  I must return every six months to maintain my mobility (ability to walk). In the past I have been able to take the full amount of my meals, travel and accommodations off of my taxes.  Last year I spent over $12,000.00. Now I cannot  take my meals off and I am limited to $50.00/night for accommodations.  There is no safe and clean place to stay in Baltimore, Maryland for $50/night. In fact, $50/night is far less than the GSA schedule allows for government employees and contractors.  It used to be the $50/night was the maximum you could reimburse a patient.  In fact, I went into debt last year to cover these expenses.

My insurer will not cover this care. I am on disability how do you expect me to pay for this care out of pocket?  I am not wealthy.  Without this tax "deduction" I will not be able to maintain my mobility.  This change in policy disproportionately affects those of us on social security disability and lower income.