The British Medical Association plans a strike from April 7 to 13. This will put more pressure on the health service, especially after the Easter holiday.

Before the strike, patients are told what to expect. They should be careful how they use the NHS, as doctors focus on life-saving care.

The strike will affect all hospitals in England. The NHS will only cancel appointments if necessary.

NHS services will be under strain during the strike.

You will be contacted about your appointment, and given a new date if it's postponed. You might not get much notice.

Rescheduled appointments are a priority. If you're not contacted, your appointment will likely happen as planned. In the last strike, almost 95% of routine care continued as normal.

Hospital patients will be told how their care will be affected. This might be different in each ward.

GP and dental practices might be less affected. Attend your appointments unless your practice says otherwise. You can get repeat prescriptions through the NHS app or your GP's website.

NHS England says patients who need urgent care should still come forward, especially in emergencies.

Patients can still get help online and through the NHS app.

The NHS asks the public to look after themselves and others during the strike.

Less urgent cases might wait longer. For non-life-threatening issues, try 111 online or the NHS app first.

If you have an emergency, call 999 if you're seriously ill or injured. If unsure, call 111 or use the online service.

The NHS has guidance online on when to call 999 or go to A&E.