Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is urging people to use telemedicine because of the spike in flu cases. Your smartphone may be able to connect you with a licensed medical professional who can diagnose some illnesses and send prescriptions to pharmacies. Some programs like Doctor On Demand and MDLive only cost 40-to-50 dollars -- and patients don't have to leave their home to see a doctor. Excellus says telemedicine can save time and be a cost-effective way to service your medical needs -- while slowing the spread of infectious illnesses like the flu.