What if cancer patients could receive chemotherapy in a less painful and more effective manner in the comfort and stability of their homes? Amir Orome, an undergraduate senior in physics at the U, is doing just that. Working for Bard Access Systems, a Salt Lake City-based medical device company, Orome developed and designed the shape and mechanics of the Implantable Access Port. Already being patented, tested and used in the field, this device is implanted in the chest of the patient and connected to the circulatory system, allowing the patient to inject his or her own chemotherapy drug at home. The new treatment method reduces the frequency of hospital visits and bills. It also provides greater agency for patients in their recovery and time to focus on interpersonal wellness. Orome believes that creating the best equipment simultaneously helps both patients and medical practitioners with aiding in the battle against cancer. “The most important part of this process,” Orome said, “has been knowing my work is going to help others.”
