For a normal, low risk pregnancy? Not important at all.

Its important to remember that OBs are ultimately surgeons by trade. They are the experts in surgical birth (aka c-sections). And thank goodness we have them for TRUE emergencies (albeit much rarer than the statistics would have us imagine).
However, they are widely criticised by birth advocates for their tendency to favour and 'groom' women with otherwise normal pregnancies for intevention that leads to c-section (ie artificial induction, stretch & sweep). Something else to consider is that they also get paid more for c-sections.....

If you anticipate and desire a normal birth, than I'd personally recommend going with those who specialise in normal birth - midwives. They will be the ones cleaning up your sick and helping you to the toilet if you end up with a c-section anyway!! OBs get the credit and all the $$ but the midwives are the angels who stay by your side before and after, helping you to establish breastfeeding and check your stiches etc. If something does appear during pregnancy that will put you in a high risk category than the midwife will refer you to an OB.

I also just believe that birth should be free. It is a natural process and a part of life. The way i see it - why should i pay some guy in a white coat 3 grand 'in case' I need him - when i am so desperately hoping that everything goes well and he will be left twiddling his thumbs? I'm the one doing the hard work - if anyone gets paid it will be me, thankyou!!
Whatever you decide - make sure you read the book listed in my sig!!

(PS - you can get your own room in public hospitals too - or even better - look into Birth Centres - there is a thread on them here somewhere).