Introduction. Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) remain a significant medical and social problem in modern healthcare. The high prevalence among the child population, the absence of validated biological markers, and pronounced clinical variability complicate timely diagnosis. Deficits in social interaction and communication substantially impair the child’s adaptation and learning. Delayed diagnosis leads to the loss of a critical developmental period when corrective interventions are most effective. This article focuses on current concepts of ASD epidemiology, diagnostic approaches, and the organization of medical care. Objective. To provide an analytical review of scientific publications devoted to the specifics of medical and social care for children with autism spectrum disorder. Materials and methods. A total of 185 literature sources were analyzed, including systematic reviews, meta-analyses, original research studies, and regulatory documents, of which 43 sources were selected that most fully reflect current issues in the provision of medical and social care for children with autism spectrum disorder. Results. The prevalence of ASD worldwide has exceeded 1% of the child population. In the Russian Federation, registered prevalence increased from 1.43 ‰ in 2019 to 2.13 ‰ in 2023, which reflects improvements in the diagnostic system. ASD diagnosis remains predominantly behavioral and is based on clinical observation and standardized rating scales (M-CHAT-R/F, CARS, ADOS-2). Validated clinical biomarkers are absent. Phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity of ASD and the lack of clear genotype–phenotype correspondence complicate the development of unified diagnostic algorithms. Although ASD can potentially be detected at 18–24 months of age, the mean age at diagnosis is 4–7 years. The organization of medical care in Russia follows a three-tiered model with mandatory screening at 18 and 24 months. Early intervention services and interdepartmental support models for young children are being developed in parallel. Discussion. The increasing detection of ASD in Russia reflects improvements in the regulatory and legal framework: preventive examination protocols have been updated, early screening has been introduced, and clinical guidelines for ASD have been implemented. Objective diagnostic difficulties are associated with phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity, the absence of validated biomarkers, and dependence on specialist qualifications. Diagnostic delay is driven by insufficient awareness at the primary care level and uneven specialist training. System strengths include a unified legal framework, formalized patient pathways, and the prioritization of non-pharmacological interventions. Promising directions include lowering the age at diagnosis, expanding specialist training, developing early intervention services, and implementing unified standards for interdepartmental collaboration. Conclusion. This analytical review demonstrates persisting medical and social challenges in the organization and delivery of care for children with ASD and indicates the need for continued research and practical efforts to ensure equitable access and effectiveness of early diagnosis through the involvement of interdepartmental specialists from the healthcare, education, and social protection systems.