I was prescribed herbal medicine from a Traditional Korean Medicine Practitioner (similar to a Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner) in South Korea (i.e. foreign medical service) for spine injury treatment.
I am confused if I can claim this herbal medicine expense as a medical expense in my Tax Return because it was not sold nor recorded by a pharmacist, but directly by the hospital. However, it is fully lawful and not able to acquire without a prescription.
The practitioner who prescribed is actually considered a doctor of Korean medicine in South Korea, and the hospital he belongs to (called Jaseng) has a patent for the prescribed herbal medicine. I know since this is Canada, he is still the practitioner from the point of CRA's view.
I live in Ontario. I'd appreciate any opinions. Thank you.
As seen in this Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) link: Details of medical expenses
Prescription drugs and medications that can lawfully be obtained for use by the person only if prescribed by a medical practitioner. Also, the drugs or medications must be recorded by a pharmacist. You cannot claim over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or supplements, even if prescribed by a medical practitioner (except Vitamin B12).
As per the prescription coming from a foreign country, you should contact the CRA for clarification at 1-800-959-8281.
Thank you for choosing TurboTax.