No, I'm pretty sure you don't have to be self-employed to take a medical deduction, but it can only be whatever amount goes over 7% of you income. A few years back, my husband and I went through a very "manic medical" year. He broke his arm, arm wrestling, I had a baby, had a diagnosed kidney disorder and had my gall bladder out. We hit the mark, but because of the 7% thing, only about 400$ was deducted. Oh well, at least it was something.