The current test kits being distributed by CDC uses a technology (Real-Time Reverse Transcriptase (RT)-PCR) that exists in very few laboratories and almost no hospitals. It is designed for a specific piece of equipment, and the CDC won't even send out kits to hospitals or labs that are not properly equipped.
From the (CDC) horses mouth:
CDC’s test kit is intended for use by laboratories designated by CDC as qualified, and in the United States, certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) to perform high complexity tests. The test kits also will be shipped to qualified international laboratories, such as World Health Organization (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance Response System (GISRS) laboratories. The test will not be available in U.S. hospitals or other primary care settings. The kits will be distributed through the International Reagent Resourceexternal icon (IRR)I suspect this equipment (Applied Biosystems 7500 Fast DX Real-Time PCR Instrument) is, like most medical lab equipment, either made in China, or dependent on Chinese parts, so labs that don't have one now, will probably not be getting one.
I thought I read somebody was working on a 30 minute blood test through a quick finger prick. Wishful thinking?