The internet has been a "big influencer" in higher patient expectations, Best Doctors has stated.
The medical opinion provider has seen a sustained increase in the number of cases it has handled in the last two years.
Dominic Howard, director at Best Doctors, Europe, said: "There is no doubt that patients have higher expectations and are prepared to go and get more information about their condition, diagnosis and treatment options in order to make the best decisions.
"The internet has been a big influencer. It is not surprising that our research shows that 89% of people would go online to seek more information following a diagnosis."
It follows on from a 23% rise in patient complaints reported to the General Medical Council in the past year; in line with the complaints trend that has soared by 69% in three years.
Best Doctors added that "interestingly" the regulator had said there was no evidence to suggest care was getting worse but rather greater expectations were driving the trend.
