I dislike the degree of aprehension that i have when having my blood pressure taken at the medical office, and even at home. ideas to lower anxiety?

Step-by-step: You could find a behavioral therapist to guide you through the steps. Or, if you want to try it on your own there are good descriptions online of desensitization. Expose yourself to the thing in small increments that push you just beyond your comfort level. Let it take as long as necessary until the last step loses it's impact. Then move ahead one step until that is okay. Be patient, it works.