Raising Health

From Chaos to Clarity in Data with Malinka Walaliyadde

Malinka Walaliyadde, Julie Yoo, Olivia Webb, and Kris Tatiossian

Posted June 10, 2025

What if one of healthcare’s most complex administrative challenges—revenue cycle management—was reframed as a data science problem? In this episode, Malinka Walaliyadde, co-founder and CEO of Akasa, joins Julie Yoo to unpack how large language models (LLMs) are transforming the way hospitals get paid by automating highly nuanced coding and billing workflows. Drawing comparisons to self-driving cars and fintech infrastructure, Malinka reveals how AI is finally making it possible to extract simplicity from a sea of clinical complexity. From a strategic focus on inpatient medical coding to the company’s deeply embedded partnerships with leading health systems like the Cleveland Clinic, he outlines why being “mile deep” matters more than ever. This conversation offers practical insights on market entry, model development, and workforce transformation—underscoring why AI for revenue cycle is not just a hot space, but an enduring opportunity. For healthcare entrepreneurs seeking to build at the intersection of AI, enterprise sales, and operational excellence, this episode is essential listening.

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“Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.”

More About This Podcast

Biology and the state of healthcare are undergoing radical shifts.
Raising Health delves into dialogues with scientists, technologists, founders, builders, leaders, and visionaries as they explore how AI, engineering, and technology elevate health to new heights and create a system of enduring health for all.

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