Edward G. McFarland, MD in Baltimore: Shoulder and Sports Medicine Surgery

Edward G. McFarland, MD is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder and sports medicine at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore, serving patients who need surgical and nonsurgical treatment for rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, and other shoulder conditions common in athletes and active adults.

What this practice actually is

McFarland operates as a faculty surgeon within Johns Hopkins Medicine's orthopedic department, one of the largest academic orthopedic programs in the country. His practice combines clinical care with teaching and research, meaning patients often see a surgeon actively publishing on shoulder outcomes and training residents. The setting differs meaningfully from independent orthopedic offices: you access not just one surgeon's skill but the diagnostic and surgical infrastructure of a major academic medical center, including on-site MRI, CT, and physical therapy. This structure makes the practice suited for complex cases and athletes seeking a second opinion, less ideal for patients prioritizing one-physician continuity across many years.

Services and what initial evaluation typically costs

McFarland offers arthroscopic and open shoulder surgery, nonsurgical shoulder rehabilitation, and diagnostic imaging interpretation. Initial consultations at Johns Hopkins run approximately $250 to $400 before insurance, depending on complexity; the actual patient responsibility depends on your plan's deductible and coinsurance. Insurance coverage is standard for orthopedic consultations when referred by a primary care physician. Physical therapy after surgery is available on-site and typically covered by most major Maryland insurers, though copays range from $25 to $60 per session depending on your plan.

Prices for procedures like rotator cuff repair and labral reconstruction vary significantly based on facility fees, anesthesia, and whether surgery is done arthroscopically (less invasive, typically lower cost) or open (more invasive, sometimes necessary for complex cases). Verify your surgeon's fee and facility charges with Johns Hopkins' financial counseling department before scheduling; the difference between arthroscopic and open repair can shift total out-of-pocket costs by $3,000 to $8,000 after insurance.

How McFarland compares to other Baltimore-area shoulder specialists

Baltimore's orthopedic market includes independent surgeons, smaller group practices, and surgeons at other major systems like University of Maryland Medical Center and Sinai Hospital. McFarland's primary advantage is Johns Hopkins' scale: same-day imaging, rapid access to specialized physical therapists, and orthopedic research infrastructure that translates into familiarity with newer techniques. The trade-off is wait times. Johns Hopkins orthopedic consultations often require 4 to 8 weeks for new patients, versus 1 to 2 weeks at smaller independent practices. If you need rapid evaluation for an acute rotator cuff tear, an independent surgeon may schedule faster. If you have a complex or revision case (prior failed shoulder surgery elsewhere), Johns Hopkins' depth and teaching mission often outweighs longer waits.

University of Maryland's orthopedic shoulder program offers comparable academic resources with potentially shorter wait times for some appointments, though outcomes data and specific surgeon expertise vary by provider. Independent practices in Towson, Canton, and Harbor East typically offer faster scheduling and longer appointment slots but less immediate access to advanced imaging and specialized rehabilitation.

Who this practice suits and who it does not

McFarland's practice serves competitive and recreational athletes, patients with complex or revision shoulder surgery needs, and anyone seeking a second opinion from a surgeon actively engaged in research. It also suits patients with insurance accepted by Johns Hopkins and flexibility around appointment scheduling. The practice is less ideal for patients seeking same-week appointments, those without insurance or with plans that don't network with Johns Hopkins, or patients who prefer minimal resident or student involvement in their care (residency teaching is built into academic orthopedic practices).

What the first visit involves

The initial appointment typically runs 45 minutes to an hour. You will meet with McFarland or his physician assistant for history and physical examination; order imaging (MRI or ultrasound) if not already done; and discuss findings. If surgery is recommended, a separate surgical consultation appointment follows, where you review operative options, recovery timelines, and risks. Johns Hopkins provides written surgical consent forms and aftercare instructions at that time. Physical therapy evaluation may be scheduled before surgery to establish baseline function.

Hours, location, and logistics

McFarland operates primarily at Johns Hopkins Hospital in East Baltimore and at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. Clinic hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM; verify the specific location and schedule directly with Johns Hopkins' scheduling line at 410-955-5170, as faculty rotations and holiday hours change seasonally. On-site parking is available at both campuses; East Baltimore offers a physicians' parking lot and a public garage; Bayview has a dedicated lot adjacent to the orthopedic clinic. Parking typically costs $7 to $15 for a single visit. Public transportation via the MTA Light Rail stops at both Hopkins campuses.

McFarland's position within Johns Hopkins' academic infrastructure and his active research in shoulder outcomes make him a logical choice for athletes and patients with complex cases, even if wait times extend beyond smaller independent practices. His expertise justifies the added scheduling step.