[Marisa]

I know that I defintiely can't afford/don't want to pay the fees for private hospitals, but from what I've been reading about maternity insurance, it sounds like an expectant mom can have her baby at a private hospital and have all the costs covered by her maternity insurance plan. Is this correct? How much does this insurance cost and can I cancel it after the baby is born? I understand the specifics will vary, but what are some general figures & plans? I'm not yet pregnant so I'll fulfill the 12 months waiting period, no problem there. Any advice?

Also, while I'm on the subject, I'm also interested in your thoughts on the quality of service & health care between private & public maternity wards (quality of doctors & midwives, safety, hygiene, comparing routine & emergency delveries, equipment and faciltites, postnatal care). Is private much better, making it worth the extra money?

Thanks for ANY advice. I'm just starting my research and am feeling very overwhelmed by all the decisions I have to make...