Thanks Ali, good point, private midwives covered by PHI is a great idea. I didn't say that if you had PHI you SHOULD be using the private system. Was just saying that women who didn't mind having an ob are relieving the pressure. Was saying in our case here with only one public hosp it is always overflowing. I think the standard of care is excellent, and the new birth centre is an excellent idea. In my instance I didn't mind how my baby was born, as long as they arrived safely so I spose it never worried me. I had a great ob, and great midwives. Anyway, is an individual choice, just supporting the women who choose obs and Private helath care - seems they are always the ones getting bagged.