moneybox,
On the few occasions that I accompanied a family member on consultants visits in a hi tech hospital, the waiting room was full of non-dubs, and on one visit it was remarked that we were the only two dubs. The others had travelled from all parts of Ireland, even as far as Kerry. Likewise, in the ward, out of 6 beds, just 2 were from Dublin. So, in reality, distance doesn't seem to be an obstacle where healthcare is concerned. People seem to be prepared to travel, to make full use of their health insurance cover.
Hi-tech cover is usually included as standard on most policies, so it doesn't have to be expensive. Its a handy option to have as an extra if required. I agree, the private hospitals are on a par when it comes to care, sometimes it depends on the health issue involved as regards what hospitals people choose.
Snowyb