Doctors will discuss the impact of the recession on the health of the nation, when they gather for their annual conference in Killarney later.

They’re expected to criticise plans by the Government to introduce a charge on prescriptions for medical card payments from next month.

The IMO conference will discuss how much an impact this deep and lasting recession has had – and will continue to have – on the health of the Irish population.

They’ve already described the 50 cent charge on each item on medical card prescriptions as a “retrograde” step which will have negative effects.

Delegates will also discuss a motion “deploring” the removal of optical and dental benefits, a Government introduced measure to cut costs.

They’ll also consider the merits of higher taxes on alcohol and cigarettes – and of a minimum price for alcohol bought in shops and off-licences, to combat binge drinking at home.

The conference runs until Saturday.