Comparing mental health professionals’ willingness to use digital therapeutics: a cross-national survey in South Korea and Germany

Abstract Background Digital therapeutics (DTx) are software-based medical interventions used to prevent, manage, or treat health conditions. As mental health DTx become more prevalent, understanding clinicians’ willingness to use them and the systemic and individual factors that shape that willingness is critical for effective implementation. This study aimed to compare perceptions of DTx among mental health professionals in South Korea and Germany. Methods A cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted between February and May 2024 among mental health professionals in South Korea and Germany. The survey assessed participant characteristics, digital technology use, willingness to use DTx, perceived applicability, motivations, and related concerns. Group differences between countries were analyzed, and logistic regression was used to identify predictors of willingness to use DTx. Exploratory analyses examined differences across professional groups. Results A total of 237 participants completed the survey (South Korea: n = 133; Germany: n = 104). Overall, 63.7% (n = 151) reported willingness to use DTx, with a significantly higher proportion in Germany than in South Korea (71.2% vs 57.9%; p = 0.035). Significant differences were observed in expected DTx functionalities and perceived applicability across mental health conditions. South Korean clinicians reported higher willingness to use AI-based chatbots, wearable-supported monitoring, and digital psychotherapy, whereas German clinicians reported higher willingness to use relaxation-based interventions. Perceived applicability also differed by country: South Korean participants more frequently considered DTx suitable for stress-related and childhood/adolescent-onset disorders, while German participants more frequently considered them suitable for substance use and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. In multivariable analysis, higher technological readiness (OR = 4.92, 95% CI 2.19–11.09; p < 0.001), residence in Germany (OR = 3.37, 95% CI 1.53–7.42; p = 0.003), and being a medical doctor (OR = 2.78, 95% CI 1.23–6.25; p = 0.027) were associated with greater willingness to use DTx. Conclusions Clinicians in both countries reported willingness to use DTx, although levels varied by country, profession, and level of digital engagement. Addressing common and context-specific barriers, including training, reimbursement mechanisms, and regulatory clarity, could support broader use of DTx in mental health care. Clinical trial number Not applicable.