Brazilian startup Carecode is stepping into the spotlight, announcing its ambition to streamline healthcare administration using AI-driven solutions. With $4.3 million in pre-seed funding led by a16z and QED, the company aims to reduce costs and enhance medical outcomes by automating tasks typically handled by healthcare call centers.
Founded by Thomaz Srougi and Pedro Magalhães, Carecode focuses on the moments surrounding medical appointments—tasks often overlooked but critical to the patient experience. The AI agents developed by Carecode handle appointment scheduling, confirmations, and rescheduling, reducing reliance on traditional call center operations. These agents also proactively fill canceled slots, enabling staff to concentrate on more complex cases.
Srougi, the founder of Dr. Consulta, a private medical service scaleup, brings deep healthcare expertise to Carecode. Dr. Consulta has raised $168 million, and Srougi’s experience in navigating the healthcare sector has been pivotal in shaping Carecode’s approach. His co-founder Magalhães, a seasoned CTO, complements this with his technical expertise.
Carecode’s localization efforts distinguish it from U.S.-based AI solutions. Recognizing that many Brazilians prefer WhatsApp for communication, the startup’s AI agents are optimized for text and audio messaging on the platform, with voice calls in development. This accessibility is particularly significant for older and low-income users, who often rely on audio messaging instead of typing.
Early results from pilot tests suggest that Carecode’s AI agents can replicate much of the work done by healthcare call centers at a fraction of the cost. This efficiency could be transformative for Brazil’s healthcare providers, who spend approximately $100 billion annually—half their revenue—on contact centers and administrative payroll.
Beyond its localized focus, Carecode’s vertical approach sets it apart. By specializing in healthcare, the startup avoids the compromises of broader, horizontal solutions. QED’s Camila Vieira Fernandes highlights this as a key advantage, noting how horizontal approaches can dilute the customer experience.
While Carecode’s initial focus remains on healthcare, the startup is eyeing future expansion into adjacent areas such as life insurance, payments, and financing. Srougi believes this approach will allow the company to build a strong competitive moat before diversifying into related sectors.
Carecode’s entry comes at a time when venture funding in Latin America has slowed, making its successful pre-seed raise even more notable. High-profile investors, including Endeavor Catalyst and K50 Ventures, and Brazilian tech leaders like Nubank founder David Vélez, have joined the round. The involvement of a16z partner Gabriel Vasquez further underscores confidence in the startup’s vision.
By addressing a significant operational challenge for healthcare providers, Carecode hopes to make a lasting impact. As Srougi puts it, “The moments around the appointment are as important as the medical encounter.”
Featured image courtesy of PYMNTS.com
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