When it comes to giving birth, no two journeys are the same – but having the right care can make all the difference.
For expecting mums in the Shire, the choice between public and private maternity care can feel overwhelming. That’s why we sat down with respected obstetrician Dr Kristina King, who delivers at Kareena Private Hospital, to break down the key differences and help you understand what private care really offers, beyond the surface.
With years of experience and a calm, collaborative approach, Dr King is known for her strong focus on maternal choice, supporting women through every stage of pregnancy and birth.
Interview with Dr Kristina King
1. What are the biggest differences between public and private maternity care that expecting mums should know about?
Private obstetric care is a completely different model of care to public. It not only gives you the choice to give birth in a private hospital, with all the benefits this entails, but means that you are cared for by a fully qualified obstetrician from day one. My patients see me for each antenatal visit, for any hospital admissions required in pregnancy (be that for hyperemesis, bleeding, pain or other medical concerns), as well as for birth and postnatal care. In the public system, most patients will see a combination of midwives and junior doctors, with many not meeting an obstetrician unless they encounter a severe complication.
2. What are some of the benefits that come with having a private obstetrician throughout your pregnancy?
Continuity of care. An obstetrician provides all aspects of care in pregnancy and birth. There is no shifting to “high risk” models as issues develop in pregnancy – obstetricians look after both low and high-risk patients. Your obstetrician knows your story and history in depth, is able to discuss your birth plan and any questions throughout, and address medical concerns as they arise. Your obstetrician can manage any type of birth required, and anticipate and manage complications swiftly.
3. How does the level of continuity of care differ between public and private systems? Why might that matter during pregnancy and birth?
There has been a huge focus on birth trauma recently, and rightly so. Continuity of care is one of the main factors identified as reducing the risk of birth trauma. I’m so proud to provide that continuity. I know each of my patient’s histories intricately and use this knowledge to manage their labour appropriately. Having a trusted specialist present during a potentially stressful time can make a world of difference. I also provide ongoing postnatal care, including debriefing, so patients can talk through their birth experience.
4. What are the facilities like at Kareena Private Hospital for birthing mothers?
Affectionately referred to as “Hotel Kareena” by many of my patients, Kareena Private is more than a comfortable stay. The “hotel” reputation reflects the luxurious private rooms and postnatal suites designed to support recovery and bonding. There’s also a curated menu and high tea available for visiting friends and family. Beyond that, Kareena offers top medical care, lactation support, antenatal education, and a team of experienced midwives in both the birth unit and postnatal ward. Kareena is also home to Gidget House, supporting women with perinatal mental health concerns.
5. Some families worry about the cost of private care. Are there any common misconceptions around affordability or what’s included?
Private obstetric care is an investment like many other things. Out-of-pocket costs depend on your chosen obstetrician and your level of health insurance. Many parents may not realise the extended Medicare Safety Net helps reduce out-of-pocket costs per calendar year.
6. Can you talk us through what the birth experience is like at Kareena Private, from admission to postnatal care?
When you call the birth suite, the midwives stay in touch with your obstetrician. The birth unit midwives manage all normal aspects of labour, supporting you according to your birth preferences. Your obstetrician will check in throughout and is present to manage any complications, whether it’s medical issues or fetal distress. I’m there for the birth and will guide you through each stage, addressing any concerns as they arise. I also visit on the postnatal ward to check in and support your recovery.
7. How does emergency or high-risk care compare in private vs public settings? Are private hospitals still equipped for complications?
Absolutely. Kareena is equipped to manage many obstetric or medical complications. It’s rare that I would advise a patient to birth in a public hospital unless there are very complex or specific risk factors involved. Kareena has an ICU and 24-hour access to theatre services if required.
8. What kind of postnatal support is available privately that mums may not receive in the public system?
Private care includes a longer postnatal hospital stay, which many of my patients find invaluable during the early days of parenthood. The ward is staffed by experienced midwives and registered nurses who provide round-the-clock support. Kareena also offers qualified lactation consultants during your hospital stay, and importantly, provides four weeks of outpatient lactation support after birth to ensure you and your baby are supported as feeding is established.
9. Are there differences in wait times for appointments or how much time patients get with their doctor across the two systems?
Being an obstetrician means life is unpredictable, but my appointments almost always run to time. Occasionally, my team may need to reschedule, but it’s rare. My patients enjoy flexibility with appointment times, often booking in advance around work or partner availability. I also make time for phone calls to discuss results, which frees up appointments to focus on concerns and planning. And because I know each patient well, we don’t need to revisit medical history at every visit, it makes our time together more effective.
10. What advice would you give to a first-time mum trying to decide between public and private care?
Think about your priorities, if having continuity of care with a specialist obstetrician matters to you, and it fits your budget, private care can be a very worthwhile choice. We’re lucky to have great public healthcare in Australia, but there are many benefits to private care for those who want that personalised, ongoing support.
11. And finally, what’s the most rewarding part of your job?
It’s an absolute privilege to support women through their pregnancy and birth. It’s a vulnerable time, and nothing beats being able to help someone through a complex birth and still have them walk away feeling confident and positive about their experience.
If you’re expecting or starting to think about your birth options, private care with an experienced obstetrician like Dr Kristina King could offer the support and continuity you’re looking for.
Dr King consults from Kareena Private Hospital and works closely with a trusted team of obstetricians and midwives who deliver tailored care around the clock.
Initial pregnancy consults should be booked early, as Dr King limits the number of patients she takes on each month to ensure individual attention.
Learn more or enquire here.
