Sadly it doesn't matter where you go, you can still get a bad midwife - this is a problem with the current maternity system. Women choose Obs and expect them to be there and have continuity of care from them, but they barely see their Obs, and then they have to give birth in a hospital where the midwives are usually all strangers and you get several shifts, and they are the ones who can make or break you - so it's all backwards. Investing in a good private midwife I reckon is the way to go for society! A hospital is not going to give you sub-standard care in an emergency or time of need. Obs will be available... its the midwives who are crucial.

I agree with you Cai on the memory thing - if it's going to be traumatic, don't do it!