I would suggest to give birth in private hospital. Because the charge is about the same around HK$2x,xxx. Your friend also can get a better service in private hospital and doesn't get a lot of " white eyes" from other people.
You should check with the hospital. Usually they have some package offer.
I could imagine how the foreigners hate the Chinese (including HK people) especially for the new immigrants and pregnant women in their own countries.
I would think Hong Kong is part of China. I think it is the responsibility of the HKSAR government but not the people as they are the one to decide the policy. Everyone wants to protect the future of their child. Just like some of the HK people who got the overseas citizenship for their child.
**My child and I were burn in HK. I just want to share my view.