INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A new law that lets residents visit with health care professionals via smartphones has gone into effect in Indiana.

WTHR-TV reports that the law allows patients to download apps, depending on their health care provider. They can enter medical information and have live conversations with medical workers who can diagnose basic ailments and prescribe medications. Doctors cannot prescribe non-controlled substances.

Health care officials say visits generally take about 20 minutes.

Patients would be paired with whichever medical professional is available. The virtual visits are not meant to replace a traditional doctor’s visit, but to offer a convenient option.

Health care officials say the system helps keep people out of emergency rooms and saves money. Officials say the average cost for a virtual visit is about $49.