Better yet - there is a new 30-minute viral protein test in the wings, awaiting FDA emergency authorization.
More info on various types of tests here:
https://news.mit.edu/2020/covid-19-diagnostic-test-prevention-0312
There is no evidence that Italy "tested everyone" nation-wide (no country did, or could):
https://ourworldindata.org/covid-testing
Italy did, however, test everyone who has recently died for Covid-19, thus they are reporting a far higher mortality rate then the rest of the world:
https://www.bmj.com/content/bmj/368/bmj.m1065.full.pdf
US testing decisions are driven by shortage of tests available, and the time it takes to back the results. Not "lessons learned". At least not in NY/NJ (my parents are retired Dr's, TMI).
Testing may only be marginally helpful for determining course of treatment.
However, it is
essential for identifying asymptomatic infected who are not aware they've picked up the virus, yet are actively spreading it. There is simply no other way to inform asymptomatic carriers of the status, and have them change their behavior:
Relying on the entire 330+M of US population to consistently and diligently self-isolate is, unfortunately, unrealistic. As important and essential as that recommendation is, and as much as we should attempt to enforce it, we still need to maintain essential services, and people who provide them, can be asymptomatic.
Either way, now it is what it is.
Best of luck and health to Chuck, Nate, and all health professionals who are on the front lines of Covid-19 response!