Abstract
This article examines the identification of autism spectrum disorders (ASD)in young children using the M-CHAT screening questionnaire in primary care settings. The aim is to evaluate the characteristics and limitations of early detection of autism spectrum disorders in young children using the standardized M-CHAT screening test. The study determined the prevalence of positive ASD screening results among young children and analyzed the main challenges and barriers to the implementation and use of M-CHAT by primary care physicians. To analyze detection issues, parental inquiries and discussion on online forums and social media dedicated to developmental delays and autism spectrum were analyzed. Based on the data obtained, practical recommendations were developed an algorithm for optimizing ASD screening in a clinic setting was proposed, aimed at increasing the effectiveness of early detection and improving patient routing.