A patient support apparatus (10) has a powered transport device (24) that is operable to propel the apparatus (10) along a floor (150) in forward and reverse longitudinal directions, as well as in left and right lateral directions. A user input (70) for selection of discrete speed settings for the powered transport device (24) is included on the patient support apparatus (10). User inputs (34) for controlling the direction that the apparatus (10) is propelled are provided at the head end (152), foot end (154), and both sides of the patient support apparatus (10).