Artificial intelligence is unlocking new possibilities in healthcare, and its potential extends far beyond medical diagnostics. Many startups are leveraging AI to address adjacent challenges like appointment scheduling, follow-ups, and improving overall patient experience.
One such innovator is Brazilian startup Carecode, which has emerged from stealth mode with a mission to reduce healthcare costs and enhance outcomes. The company achieves this by deploying AI-powered agents designed to manage processes surrounding medical appointments—tasks traditionally handled by call centers.
“Most people assume the critical moment in healthcare is the interaction with the doctor. However, after a decade in the industry, I’ve realized that the activities before and after the appointment are just as crucial,” explains CEO Thomaz Srougi.
While not a medical professional, Srougi’s insights into the field are rooted in his experience founding Dr. Consulta, a private healthcare service that has secured $168 million in funding. Building on this expertise, Srougi now aims to transform how Brazilian healthcare systems operate through Carecode.
Pioneering AI-Driven Healthcare Solutions
Carecode recently closed a $4.3 million pre-seed round led by Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) and QED Investors, with additional support from Endeavor Catalyst and high-profile figures in Brazil’s tech scene. This investment comes at a challenging time for Latin America’s venture ecosystem, showcasing the faith placed in Srougi and his co-founder, Pedro Magalhães, who brings technical expertise from roles like CTO at BEES Bank Brasil and Zé Delivery.
One of Carecode’s standout features is its ability to seamlessly integrate with users’ preferred communication platforms, particularly WhatsApp. By supporting text and audio messaging, the startup ensures accessibility for older adults and low-income individuals who often favor voice messages. Voice call integration is also on the horizon, broadening its usability.
Setting a New Standard for AI in Healthcare
Unlike broader AI solutions, Carecode’s vertical approach focuses on healthcare-specific needs, giving it a significant edge. “Horizontal solutions often require patchwork implementations that lead to suboptimal outcomes,” notes Camila Vieira Fernandes of QED. Carecode aims to provide a unified, tailored experience for healthcare providers and patients alike.
This focus is particularly timely in Brazil, where healthcare companies allocate nearly half their revenue to contact centers and administrative tasks, amounting to $100 billion annually. Carecode’s AI agents not only reduce these costs but also enhance efficiency by proactively filling canceled slots and leaving complex cases for human staff.
A Broader Vision for the Future
Carecode’s ambitions extend beyond healthcare. As it matures, the company envisions branching into related industries like insurance, payments, and financing—all while building on its healthcare foundations.
With its innovative AI systems, localized approach, and strong leadership, Carecode is poised to redefine patient interactions and streamline operations in Brazil’s healthcare ecosystem, paving the way for global adoption.
