Perceived knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare professionals toward the use of noninvasive neuromodulation technology in the treatment of cognitive disorders

This study aimed to assess healthcare professionals’ perceived knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward the use of noninvasive neuromodulation technology as an adjunctive treatment for cognitive disorders. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan Medical University, enrolling healthcare professionals from multiple centers from April 2025 to August 2025. KAP scores were measured using a structured questionnaire. Factors associated with practice were identified using multivariable logistic regression. A path analysis within a structural equation modeling (SEM) framework, incorporating mediation effects, was conducted to explore the interrelationships among the KAP dimensions. A total of 479 valid responses were included. The mean perceived knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 5.36 ± 5.10 (possible maximum: 16; 33.50% of maximum score), 21.32 ± 3.25 (possible maximum: 25; 85.28% of maximum score), and 20.05 ± 4.07 (possible maximum: 25; 80.20% of maximum score), respectively. Both perceived knowledge (OR = 1.284, 95% CI: 1.156–1.427, P < 0.001) and attitude (OR = 2.635, 95% CI: 2.180–3.186, P < 0.001) were independently associated with practice. SEM analysis revealed that perceived knowledge exerted a direct positive effect on attitude (β = 0.489, P = 0.012) and practice (β = 0.261, P = 0.009), while attitude directly influenced practice (β = 0.642, P = 0.005). Additionally, perceived knowledge indirectly affected practice through its influence on attitude (β = 0.314, P = 0.008). Although healthcare professionals demonstrated positive attitudes and practices toward noninvasive neuromodulation technology, their level of perceived knowledge remained insufficient. Targeted educational and training initiatives are warranted to enhance knowledge, which may further strengthen attitudes and practices related to this emerging therapeutic approach. Not applicable.