10/29/2025
Welcome, Derrick Porter, DO, to Mercy Health — The Heart Institute, Anderson; Mercy Health — The Heart Institute, East; and Mercy Health — The Heart Institute, Milford!
Dr. Derrick Porter has always had a passion for helping others, a calling that began in his youth while growing up in a rural and underserved community. A personal medical experience during that time left a lasting impression on him. Facing a diagnosis that initially required extensive surgery, he ultimately underwent a minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist — an experience that inspired his own pursuit of medicine.
During his third year of medical school, Dr. Porter was drawn to cardiology, where he saw the potential to change lives through innovation and precision. As an interventional cardiologist, he values the opportunity to treat patients with minimally invasive techniques, often using stents to restore blood flow and prevent the need for open-heart surgery.
Becoming an interventional cardiologist required years of rigorous training — four years of medical school, three years of internal medicine residency, three years of cardiology fellowship, and an additional year of interventional cardiology fellowship, which he completed in 2020. Beginning his career during the COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges, especially when connecting with patients behind masks and distancing measures. Still, he remained committed to lifelong learning and growth, continually earning the trust and respect of his colleagues who now seek his input and expertise.
Dr. Porter was drawn to Mercy Health after hearing about the strong sense of purpose and satisfaction among its physicians. He was particularly inspired by the ministry’s supportive culture, faith-based Mission, and emphasis on work-life balance.
In his practice, Dr. Porter cares for patients experiencing symptoms such as chest discomfort and shortness of breath with exertion. He believes deeply in the value of a trusted patient-provider relationship, one built on communication, understanding, and collaboration. He takes time to explain his recommendations, ensuring patients are fully informed and confident in their care decisions.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Porter is a devoted husband and father of two. Much of his free time is spent supporting his children’s sports and school activities. He is also a praise and worship leader at his local church, where he enjoys playing guitar and singing. In addition to his faith and family, he loves traveling, playing basketball and golf, enjoying table tennis and video games, fishing and spending time outdoors.
Derrick Porter, DO, is accepting new patients. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3LaU9In.
